Discovering the Hidden Joy of God's Kingdom
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to worship and celebrate the kingdom of God, focusing on the parables of Jesus. We began with a responsive reading, affirming our faith through the Apostles' Creed, and then spotlighted the Stephen Ministry, particularly recognizing Carolyn Jones for her dedication and training. Stephen Ministry is a vital part of our church, providing support and care to those in need. Carolyn's commitment exemplifies the spirit of service and community that we strive to uphold.
We then delved into the parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl from Matthew 13. These parables illustrate the incomparable value of the kingdom of God. The first parable tells of a man who finds a hidden treasure in a field and, in his joy, sells everything he owns to buy that field. The second parable describes a merchant who finds a pearl of great value and sells all he has to purchase it. Both parables emphasize the joy and sacrifice involved in discovering the kingdom of God.
The kingdom of God is not about material wealth or power but about recognizing and valuing the spiritual treasure that it represents. The joy of finding the kingdom is so profound that it compels one to give up everything else. This joy and the willingness to sacrifice are central to understanding the true value of the kingdom.
We concluded with a prayer, asking for God's guidance to help us see and pursue the kingdom of God in our lives. We were reminded that the kingdom is often hidden in plain view and that it requires a heart attuned to God's grace to recognize it. As we go forth, let us be mindful of the kingdom's presence and strive to live in a way that reflects its values.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Kingdom of God is a Hidden Treasure: The parable of the hidden treasure teaches us that the kingdom of God is often found in unexpected places. It requires a heart that is open and seeking to recognize its value. The joy of discovering the kingdom is so overwhelming that it compels us to give up everything else to possess it. This joy is a reflection of the profound spiritual fulfillment that comes from being part of God's kingdom. [55:15]
2. The Pearl of Great Value: The parable of the pearl emphasizes the incomparable worth of the kingdom of God. The merchant sells all he has to obtain the pearl, symbolizing the total commitment required to embrace the kingdom. This parable challenges us to evaluate what we truly value in life and to be willing to sacrifice everything for the sake of the kingdom. The kingdom's value is not in its monetary worth but in its spiritual significance. [01:00:49]
3. Joy in Sacrifice: Both parables highlight the joy that comes from discovering the kingdom of God. This joy is not just a fleeting emotion but a deep, abiding sense of fulfillment and purpose. It is a joy that makes any sacrifice worthwhile. The kingdom of God brings a joy that surpasses all earthly pleasures and treasures, inviting us to live a life of joyful surrender. [58:35]
4. The Kingdom is Hidden in Plain View: The treasure and the pearl were hidden in plain sight, accessible to anyone who was looking. This teaches us that the kingdom of God is available to all, but it requires spiritual discernment to see it. The values of the kingdom—love, grace, justice—are often overlooked by those who are focused on worldly pursuits. We must train our hearts to recognize and embrace these values. [01:06:23]
5. The Cost of the Kingdom: Embracing the kingdom of God requires a willingness to give up everything else. This is not about buying the kingdom with money but about prioritizing it above all else. The kingdom demands our total commitment and transforms our values and priorities. It calls us to live in a way that reflects the sacrificial love and grace of God. [01:07:57]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[26:16] - Apostles' Creed
[31:25] - Stephen Ministry Spotlight
[34:40] - Installation of Carolyn Jones
[39:16] - Pastoral Prayer
[50:48] - Introduction to Parables
[55:15] - Parable of the Hidden Treasure
[01:00:49] - Parable of the Pearl
[01:03:24] - Three Points on the Kingdom
[01:14:23] - One Tin Soldier Song Reflection
[01:19:56] - Closing and Benediction
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Matthew 13:44-46 (NIV): "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it."
### Observation Questions
1. What actions did the man take after finding the hidden treasure in the field? [55:15]
2. How did the merchant respond upon finding the pearl of great value? [55:15]
3. What common theme is present in both parables about the kingdom of heaven? [55:15]
4. How does the sermon describe the joy associated with discovering the kingdom of God? [58:35]
### Interpretation Questions
1. What does the hidden treasure in the field symbolize in the context of the kingdom of God? [55:15]
2. How does the merchant's willingness to sell everything for the pearl reflect the value of the kingdom of God? [01:00:49]
3. Why is the joy of discovering the kingdom of God described as profound and compelling? [58:35]
4. How does the concept of the kingdom being "hidden in plain view" challenge our everyday perceptions and priorities? [01:06:23]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you discovered something valuable in an unexpected place. How did that experience change your perspective on what you value most in life? [55:15]
2. The merchant sold everything he had to obtain the pearl. What are some things in your life that you might need to let go of to fully embrace the kingdom of God? [01:00:49]
3. The sermon emphasizes the joy that comes from discovering the kingdom of God. How can you cultivate a sense of joy and fulfillment in your spiritual journey? [58:35]
4. The kingdom of God is often hidden in plain view. What are some ways you can train your heart to recognize and embrace the values of the kingdom, such as love, grace, and justice? [01:06:23]
5. Embracing the kingdom of God requires a willingness to give up everything else. What steps can you take to prioritize the kingdom of God in your daily life? [01:07:57]
6. How can you support and encourage others in your community to recognize and pursue the kingdom of God, similar to the role of Stephen Ministry in the church? [31:25]
7. The sermon concludes with a prayer for guidance to see and pursue the kingdom of God. What specific prayer or spiritual practice can you incorporate into your routine to stay attuned to God's presence and guidance? [41:28]
Devotional
Day 1: The Kingdom of God is a Hidden Treasure
The kingdom of God is often found in unexpected places, requiring a heart that is open and seeking to recognize its value. The parable of the hidden treasure tells of a man who discovers a treasure buried in a field. In his joy, he sells everything he owns to buy that field. This parable illustrates the profound joy and fulfillment that comes from discovering the kingdom of God. The joy is so overwhelming that it compels one to give up everything else to possess it. This joy is a reflection of the profound spiritual fulfillment that comes from being part of God's kingdom.
The kingdom of God is not about material wealth or power but about recognizing and valuing the spiritual treasure that it represents. The joy of finding the kingdom is so profound that it compels one to give up everything else. This joy and the willingness to sacrifice are central to understanding the true value of the kingdom. The kingdom is often hidden in plain view, accessible to anyone who is looking. It requires spiritual discernment to see it. [55:15]
Matthew 13:44 (ESV): "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field."
Reflection: Think of a time when you discovered something valuable in an unexpected place. How can you cultivate a heart that is open and seeking to recognize the hidden treasures of God's kingdom in your daily life?
Day 2: The Pearl of Great Value
The parable of the pearl emphasizes the incomparable worth of the kingdom of God. The merchant in the parable finds a pearl of great value and sells all he has to purchase it. This parable challenges us to evaluate what we truly value in life and to be willing to sacrifice everything for the sake of the kingdom. The kingdom's value is not in its monetary worth but in its spiritual significance. The merchant's total commitment to obtaining the pearl symbolizes the total commitment required to embrace the kingdom of God.
The kingdom of God demands our total commitment and transforms our values and priorities. It calls us to live in a way that reflects the sacrificial love and grace of God. The parable of the pearl invites us to consider what we are willing to give up to fully embrace the kingdom. It challenges us to prioritize the kingdom above all else and to recognize its incomparable worth. [01:00:49]
Matthew 13:45-46 (ESV): "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it."
Reflection: What is one thing in your life that you value highly? How can you re-evaluate its importance in light of the incomparable worth of the kingdom of God?
Day 3: Joy in Sacrifice
Both parables highlight the joy that comes from discovering the kingdom of God. This joy is not just a fleeting emotion but a deep, abiding sense of fulfillment and purpose. It is a joy that makes any sacrifice worthwhile. The kingdom of God brings a joy that surpasses all earthly pleasures and treasures, inviting us to live a life of joyful surrender. The joy of finding the kingdom is so profound that it compels one to give up everything else to possess it.
This joy and the willingness to sacrifice are central to understanding the true value of the kingdom. The kingdom of God is not about material wealth or power but about recognizing and valuing the spiritual treasure that it represents. The joy of finding the kingdom is so profound that it compels one to give up everything else. This joy and the willingness to sacrifice are central to understanding the true value of the kingdom. [58:35]
Hebrews 12:2 (ESV): "Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you experienced deep joy from making a sacrifice. How can you embrace the joy of surrendering to God's kingdom in your daily life?
Day 4: The Kingdom is Hidden in Plain View
The treasure and the pearl were hidden in plain sight, accessible to anyone who was looking. This teaches us that the kingdom of God is available to all, but it requires spiritual discernment to see it. The values of the kingdom—love, grace, justice—are often overlooked by those who are focused on worldly pursuits. We must train our hearts to recognize and embrace these values. The kingdom of God is not about material wealth or power but about recognizing and valuing the spiritual treasure that it represents.
The joy of finding the kingdom is so profound that it compels one to give up everything else. This joy and the willingness to sacrifice are central to understanding the true value of the kingdom. The kingdom is often hidden in plain view, accessible to anyone who is looking. It requires spiritual discernment to see it. [01:06:23]
Colossians 3:1-2 (ESV): "If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth."
Reflection: What are some ways you can train your heart to recognize and embrace the values of God's kingdom in your daily life?
Day 5: The Cost of the Kingdom
Embracing the kingdom of God requires a willingness to give up everything else. This is not about buying the kingdom with money but about prioritizing it above all else. The kingdom demands our total commitment and transforms our values and priorities. It calls us to live in a way that reflects the sacrificial love and grace of God. The parable of the pearl invites us to consider what we are willing to give up to fully embrace the kingdom. It challenges us to prioritize the kingdom above all else and to recognize its incomparable worth.
The kingdom of God is not about material wealth or power but about recognizing and valuing the spiritual treasure that it represents. The joy of finding the kingdom is so profound that it compels one to give up everything else. This joy and the willingness to sacrifice are central to understanding the true value of the kingdom. [01:07:57]
Luke 14:33 (ESV): "So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from surrendering to Jesus? What would surrendering this area to Him actually look like in terms of daily habits?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "How many of you ever felt like that? You've been in a place in your life, you're going through some difficulty, maybe some depression, maybe an illness, maybe family issues, and you just need someone alongside of you who will listen and support you. Anybody ever feel that way? I think most of us have been through that and it's just such a wonderful, wonderful ministry. And I think that's one of the reasons we come to this ministry because they are so qualified and equipped to do that." (43 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "God, sometimes it's lost on us that you don't so much need our money, our gifts and our offerings, as we need to give it. That is an act of discipleship. And through that, you bless us. You bless the ministry of this church. You use that to create and do beautiful things. But also the change that it brings to us and to our hearts and our lives. To live in that kind of surrender. A kind of gratitude and grace." (303 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Everyone loves a good story, right? And this is a good story. This is the time of year that maybe you're looking for one. Maybe you're looking for a good movie to see that tells a good story. Or maybe you're looking for a good book, right? Summertime read. So that's the best, right? Get you a good book to take to the beach." (16 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure that somebody hid in a field, which someone else found and covered up. Full of joy, the finder sold everything and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls. When he found one very precious pearl, he went and sold all that he owned and bought it." (28 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The treasure cost everything, but is not measured in earthly wealth. It cost every, cannot be bought or sold with earthly means. But it cost us everything. And there's so many great examples as you look around. None greater maybe than the apostles." (20 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "The treasure comes as a surprise. I do think there is seeking involved. I think that the guy who is out. And, you know, it's not implied. It's two sentences. But I think the guy is seeking for something. I don't think he stumbles. Maybe he did upon the treasure. But I think, you know, he was looking. But aren't we all looking? Aren't we all looking for something for some kind of. Meaning some kind of treasure in life. The merchant, that was his job. He is sifting through pearls all day long. And he fought, but he didn't expect to find that pearl. And it's that pearl that causes him to go out and sell it. So he comes as a surprise. They weren't expecting it. They weren't expecting the treasure that would come. I would use another word. Grace. Grace. To discover grace. And the only response, I think. And I thought about like a better word for this. The only response I can think about is lucky. How do you feel so lucky? That I was the one in that field. That I was the one that came across that treasure." (81 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The treasure is hidden in plain view. Now, the first guy, he covered it up. But it was there for anyone to find. It was there. Anybody could have found it. But this. This man, that's why he was fortunate. That's why he was lucky. He found it. The pearl was there. I'm sure there were other pearl merchants. He was the one who found it. And I guess maybe he didn't think someone else. Or maybe he put it on layaway. I don't know. But, you know, he goes away. He goes away and sells everything. The treasure is hidden in plain view. And such is love. Such is grace. Such is justice. Those who see it and receive it understand it." (50 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The pearl has no value if all you seek is its value. But if you renounce the value of the pearl and you give up everything simply because you are captivated by its beauty, then and only then will you discover the true value of the pearl. And I know that's complicated. I know that's steep. But that is digging into, I think, what Jesus is implying in the kingdom of God. As I said, all we can think about is like, how much can he get for the pearl so he's going to get this big windfall? It doesn't seem to be about that. It seems to be about the pearl itself. He has sold everything. All he has is the pearl, don't you see? That is what Jesus says, the kingdom of God or the kingdom of heaven." (50 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The kingdom of God works differently from that. Kingdom of God comes as a surprise. The treasure is also hidden in plain view. Now, the first guy, he covered it up. But it was there for anyone to find. It was there. Anybody could have found it. But this. This man, that's why he was fortunate. That's why he was lucky. He found it. The pearl was there. I'm sure there were other pearl merchants. He was the one who found it. And I guess maybe he didn't think someone else. Or maybe he put it on layaway. I don't know. But, you know, he goes away. He goes away and sells everything. The treasure is hidden in plain view. And such is love. Such is grace. Such is justice. Those who see it and receive it understand it." (50 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The kingdom of God cannot be bought or sold. That is not what's there. And to those who get it, they get it. Those who don't, it just. It seems hopeful but unrealistic. That's not the way the world works. And there's so much of the kingdom of God. It's not the way the world works. And Jesus is saying, you know, we need to seek after the kingdom of God. And so as I was studying that this week, I came up with three points because I'm a Methodist preacher. That's what we do. I came up with three points. There's probably a lot more. But I want to give you three things that. I kind of thought about this parable that maybe we could think about ourselves." (49 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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