45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: 46 Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. (Matthew 13:45-46 KJV)
The Parable of the Pearl of Great Value
The parable about the pearl of great price (Mt 13:45-46) conveys the same message as the parable of the hidden treasure (Mt 13:44). It is just like what Joseph said to Pharaoh that the dream was doubled because the matter was certain (Ge 41:32).
All people are busy seeking goodly pearls—some seek riches, others honor, and others knowledge—but most settle for counterfeits. Jesus Christ is a Pearl of great price, a Jewel of immeasurable worth, making those who have him truly rich toward God. In having him, we have all we need to be happy now and forever.
A true Christian is like a merchant seeking and finding this pearl. He does not settle for anything less than an interest in Christ and, determined to be spiritually rich, trades high. He goes and buys that pearl—not just bidding for it, but making it his own. What good is it to know Christ if we do not claim him as ours? (1Co 1:30).
Those who would have a saving interest in Christ must be willing to part with everything for him, leaving all to follow him. Whatever opposes Christ or competes with him for our love must be cheerfully given up, no matter how dear to us. A man may buy gold too dearly, but not this Pearl of great price.