Matthew 13:44

[Sam]

Originally Posted by Hoovie

...I had heard it preached that we sell all we have to receive/buy salvation, and most recently heard it preached the not only was the treasure (Salvation) worth getting but the whole field was needed (all the bells and whistles.)

But this morning I heard it preached that we are the treasure in the field, and we are the pearl of great value. Christ literally gave his all to purchase us!
Some question what would give us such value? The answer is the purchaser - the one who was willing to pay the price.

I find it comforting to know I won't come up short. I offer nothing. Jesus paid it all!

The idea that we sell all and buy the treasure or the pearl is performance based salvation.

The One who purchased the treasure in the field (the church and the whole world that it is hidden in) and the Pearl (the undivided church which was produced from the injury and pain in His side and a gem which was of value among the Gentiles) is Jesus Christ.

[Dedicated Mind]

interesting thought, never heard it before, thanks for sharing

[houston]

I thought this thread was going to be about Mormonism.

[Orthodoxy]

Originally Posted by Sam

The idea that we sell all and buy the treasure or the pearl is performance based salvation.

The One who purchased the treasure in the field (the church and the whole world that it is hidden in) and the Pearl (the undivided church which was produced from the injury and pain in His side and a gem which was of value among the Gentiles) is Jesus Christ.

Sam, I don't think I agree that the primary meaning of the parable is about Christ purchasing the Church. I also find it hard to understand why selling all and buying the treasure is performance-based salvation. I'm trying to understand what you're saying.

If you get a chance, look at this article (especially the last section, "One Condition for Salvation") and let me know what you think.

[Hoovie]

I was reminded that we had a discussion on this three years ago, so I simply merged the threads.

My hesitation to accept the church or myself as the treasure at that time was based on me not understanding the "value" we have to Christ. Value is not determined by our ability to save ourselves, but by the sum one is willing to pay for us!

This was brought out clearly to me yesterday. Christ does see us at the very highest premium. Obviously. He gave his all to purchase us.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-C1q...eature=related

[Sam]

We are bankrupt. We can't buy anything. The one that paid the great price is Jesus. He gave Himself for us. He purchased or redeemed us.