The parable of the hidden treasure illustrates the cost of salvation as represented by the gospel message (Matthew 13:44). Although salvation cannot be purchased, nevertheless it costs all that a man has. In ancient times, it was common for a man to hide his valuables in the earth, where they often remained after his death. Those who inherited the land will not know of the buried treasure, and would have no claim on it than the next person. The owner of the land didn’t know about the hidden treasure, or he would have reclaimed it before selling the land.
But when the person found the treasure, he put it back into the ground to save it until he was able to buy the land. Then he went and sold all that he owned and bought the land (Matthew 13:44). In a similar manner, those that find Christ sell or forsake all that they have to obtain Him. Peace with God costs all that a man has, but it is worth infinitely more.
The parable of the hidden treasure illustrates the experience of those who find truth without having to search for it, where as the parable of the priceless pearl represents those who are actively searching for the truth (Matthew 13:45-46). The merchant man was a dealer in pearls who was looking for a very valuable pearl and he represents those who are looking for the Savior. When the merchant found the great pearl of great price, he sold all that he had and bought it.
The “pearl of great price” is Jesus Christ, “the chiefest among ten thousand” (Song of Solomon 5:10). The person that finds Christ finds in Him life’s greatest treasure and eternal life. Paul said, he who truly finds Christ will “count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus,” and be willing to suffer “the loss of all things” in order to “win Christ” (Philippians 3:8).
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
