Jesus Taught about the Kingdom

Jesus Taught about the Kingdom

Matthew 13; Mark 4

Dear families,

More than 100 years ago, a group of missionaries developed a unique way to illustrate the idea of committing everything to the kingdom of God. These Christians were known as one-way missionaries because they would buy one-way tickets to their mission destinations with no intention to return. 

They were so confident they would never return to their homes that they would pack all their belongings in a coffin that would be used to “bury” them when they died on the mission field. As they traveled to the ends of the earth, they said goodbye to everyone and everything they had ever known, all for the kingdom of God.  

Jesus’ parables about the hidden treasure and the priceless pearl represent an encounter that changes everything. In one, a man stumbles upon treasure buried in a field. In the other, a merchant who has searched his entire life for fine pearls suddenly discovers one so valuable nothing else compares. In both cases, these men sell everything to obtain what they’ve found. 

From a worldly perspective, selling everything to obtain one thing seems reckless and unwise. And yet, the man sells all he owns “in his joy.” This isn’t about grim duty or forced giving—it’s about overwhelming delight. When you truly see the worth of the kingdom, sacrificing everything you have for it doesn’t feel like loss. Rather, it brings great gain. 

Many times, we find ourselves chasing a thousand smaller treasures, such as comfort, reputation, and control. But none of those treasures ultimately satisfy. They demand more and give less. But when we encounter Jesus, the true treasure, everything else finds its proper place. Paul echoes this in Philippians 3:8: “I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” 

This week, lead the kids in your care to value Jesus above all and seek their deepest joy in the one who gave everything for us.

Check out The Gospel Project At Home for resources designed to help you lead a family worship experience as well as suggestions for morning and evening prayer times and family activities.