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Explanation for:
Matthew
13
:
46
Who when he had found one pearl of great price, went his way, and sold all that he had, and bought it.
10
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"In alternative phrasing, the essence of the previous statement remains intact. The valuable treasures sought by the merchant's agent represent the law and the prophets. Listen, Marcion! Listen, Manichaeus! These treasures consist of the law and the prophets, along with the wisdom of the Old Testament. However, there is one jewel of immense worth: the understanding of the Savior, the profound significance of His suffering, and the mystery surrounding His resurrection. When a merchant, exemplified by the Apostle Paul, discovers this priceless jewel, he begins to regard the mysteries of the Old Testament law and the prophets, along with the earlier ordinances and rituals that he observed righteously, as inconsequential, as though he were striving to purchase Christ. This does not imply that obtaining a new treasure diminishes the worth of the previous ones; rather, it signifies that every other treasure pales in comparison to this one."},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Just as there is minimal distinction between the mustard seed and the leaven, the two parables of the treasure and the pearl bear similarities as well. Both parables emphasize the paramount importance of proclaiming the message. In the illustrations of the leaven and the mustard seed, we witness the immense potency of preaching, which is destined to triumph over all creation. Conversely, the present parables highlight the significance and multifaceted nature of preaching. It flourishes like a mustard tree, permeates like leaven, is as priceless as pearls, and provides countless blessings akin to treasure. This teaches us that we must dedicate ourselves to preaching with a commitment that prioritizes it above all else, and we should engage in this work with joy. Those who relinquish their earthly possessions should recognize that doing so results in gain rather than loss. Notice how the value of preaching remains concealed in the world, yet it offers boundless benefits. Unless one is willing to forsake everything, true discovery will remain elusive, and without a genuine and diligent heart, one will not uncover its treasures. Thus, it is essential first to cast aside worldly distractions, and second, to remain vigilant. It is written, \\"To him that seeketh good pearls, who, when he found one precious pearl, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.\\" There exists but one truth, not many. Just as a person who possesses pearls recognizes their wealth, yet to others, it may remain unseen due to their size, so it is with preaching: those who hold this treasure understand their richness, while nonbelievers, unaware of its true value, do not comprehend the abundance we possess. However, to guard against an overreliance on preaching alone or the false notion that faith by itself suffices for salvation, the Lord presents a new and serious parable. Which parable is this? The parable of the net."},{"author-name":"Peter Chrysologus","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896c8505740d15218d3ed_Peter%20Chrysologus.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":5,"exegesis-text":"Let no one who encounters the name of this trader pass judgment on him. This is a trader who embodies compassion, rather than one who is solely preoccupied with profit. He values the jewels of virtue over the enticements of vice; he measures the weight of character instead of that of precious gems; he adorns himself with honor rather than luxury; he showcases not the allure of pleasure, but the signs of authentic wisdom. Consequently, this merchant offers treasures of the heart and spirit, esteemed not for earthly relationships, but for communion with God. His trade is not for immediate rewards, but for eternal life, and he seeks not transient acclaim, but the everlasting honor of heaven. He aims to attain the kingdom of heaven as the outcome of his virtues, desiring to purchase the ultimate pearl of everlasting life through his immeasurable goodness."},{"author-name":"Isidore of Pelusium","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88d94130e668938c9ae9d_Isidore%20of%20Pelusium.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"The one who has pursued precious gems and sacrificed all that bears his name belongs to the Lord’s new creation, having set aside the inheritance and reverence of their ancestors in search of the Lord of glory. The Lord is referred to as these gems, for He is united with the fullness of the divine nature and can only be recognized by His followers and those who proclaim His truths."},{"author-name":"Chromatius of Aquileia","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88a3df6d7a747a33b4f4a_Chromatius%20of%20Aquileia.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"The bustling atmosphere of the fair offers us, dear brethren, a chance to share insights regarding the Gospel. In many ways, the temporal realm serves as a reflection of spiritual realities, and what exists on earth can symbolize what is found in heaven. Our Lord and Savior frequently imparts heavenly truths through earthly illustrations, as when He teaches, ‘The Kingdom of Heaven is like a net cast into the sea’ (Matthew 13:47) or compares it to ‘a merchant seeking fine pearls.’ Thus, if a fair is meant for individuals to either sell their surplus or acquire what they lack, it is neither inappropriate nor improper for me to present for sale the gifts that the Lord has bestowed upon me—the heavenly teachings. Though I may be humble and unworthy, I have been graced to be one of those entrusted with talents to trade for the glory of God (cf. Matt. 25:15-30). Surely, where God’s grace abounds, many eager traders will be found. However, it is crucial that we seek spiritual gain even as we do not overlook earthly matters. I eagerly wish to present you with precious pearls (cf. Matt. 13:45-46) from the sacred Gospel; prepare your hearts (cf. Luke 6:45), invest actively, and claim these treasures for yourselves! Here is our fair, where spiritual exchanges take place. Let us, blessed ones, offer what we possess; let us bring forth our spiritual poverty, that we may receive in return the treasures of the heavenly realm as promised; let us extend humility, that we may inherit the earth and paradise; let us atone for our sins, as well as those of others, to become worthy of the Lord’s comforting mercies; let us yearn for righteousness, that we may be filled; let us exhibit mercy, to encounter true mercy ourselves; let us strive to live as peacemakers, that we may be called ‘sons of God’; let us present pure hearts and bodies without blemish, so that we may behold God with clarity; let us not shy away from suffering for the truth, so that we may become heirs to the Kingdom of Heaven. Rather, let us embrace insult, torment, and even death, should it come, for the glory of God, filled with joy and gladness, so that we may receive a bounteous reward alongside the prophets and apostles in heaven (see Matthew 5:3-12). As we conclude, let us mirror the beginning: if merchants take delight in fleeting and transitory wealth, we will rejoice and be even more elated, for today we have discovered the Lord's pearls that outshine all the riches of this world. To obtain, cherish, and hold onto these treasures, let us seek assistance, grace, and strength from the Lord, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"The ocean represents true existence, while the merchants symbolize those who navigate its depths in pursuit of understanding. Numerous pearls signify the diverse insights of many sages, yet among them only one holds supreme worth - the singular truth embodied in Christ. Pearls are formed within a shell that opens and allows a flash of light to enter; when it closes, the light and moisture together create these gems, rendering them brilliantly white. In a similar way, Christ was conceived in the Virgin through the divine light of the Holy Spirit. Just as a person who owns pearls and often examines them is aware of the treasure they possess while others remain unaware, so too the message of the Gospel is concealed from the uninformed and simple-hearted. Thus, it is essential to pursue these precious truths, willing to sacrifice everything in their pursuit."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"When we refer to the kingdom of heaven, we are speaking of the yearning for this divine realm, which God instills in humanity. This is akin to a merchant who diligently seeks his salvation. Upon discovering a pearl of great worth, representing the doctrine of faith — noted as ‘one’ because true faith is singular, unmatched in its value and precious to many, especially to those who grasp its significance — this fervent desire causes the individual to act with determination, forsaking all that they previously cherished to possess solely this one truth (the doctrine of faith). \\n\\nThese two parables share numerous similarities while differing in terminology; one speaks of faith as a treasure, and the other designates it as a pearl, just as the preceding parables referred to it as a mustard seed in one instance and as leaven in another. In these examples, Christ illustrates both the growth and power of faith, as well as its riches and excellence. It flourishes like a mustard seed, possesses the transformative ability of leaven, enriches like a treasure, and shines with the brilliance of the most valuable pearl. The remaining aspects of the parable are straightforward and do not require further elaboration.\\n\\nHowever, to prevent the misconception that mere belief is adequate for salvation, He presents an additional parable, which teaches us that not all who profess faith will attain salvation; rather, many may be lost. The Lord Himself is also seen as the pearl, united with the fullness of the Godhead and recognized solely by the fishermen and their disciples."},{"author-name":"Nestor the Chronicler","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8957796bafed91045c916_Nestor%20the%20Chronicler.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":12,"exegesis-text":"Those who earnestly seek understanding will discover it. Wisdom calls out in the streets, raises her voice in the pathways, proclaims from the city walls, and speaks boldly at the city gates: how long will those lacking insight embrace their folly? (Proverbs 1:20-22). This same blessed Olga, from a young age, diligently sought wisdom to uncover what is truly valuable in this world, and she discovered the precious treasure of Christ. For Solomon declared: the longing of the favored brings joy to the soul (Proverbs 13:20); and: direct your heart toward contemplation (Proverbs 2:2); those who love me I will love, and those who diligently seek me will find me (Proverbs 8:17). The Lord assures us: Whoever comes to me will not be rejected (John 6:37)."},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The Saviour teaches us that the kingdom of heaven resembles a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, not sparing any effort or resources, upon discovering a singularly valuable pearl, hurried home and sold all he owned to acquire it. This unique pearl symbolizes true faith, divine grace, eternal salvation, and the Saviour Himself, our Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed Theophylact notes that this remarkable pearl represents a singular truth, which is Christ. St. Chrysostom reflects that just as a person who possesses pearls recognizes their own wealth, those with the truth understand their richness, while those who do not believe, unaware of the value of this treasure, remain oblivious to the riches we possess."},{"author-name":"Gladkow B.I.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88bf0ceef8c96e09a6521_Gladkow%20B.I..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"In His effort to reveal deeper truths through parables, the Lord presented two stories to the apostles regarding those in search of divine truth. In the first, a man stumbled upon a hidden treasure in a field; overjoyed, he sold all his possessions to acquire the field. In the second parable, another individual diligently searched for fine pearls until he discovered one of great value, leading him to sell all he owned to purchase it. Both stories emphasize the discovery of truth and the path to the Kingdom of Heaven, represented by Christ, who embodies truth and the way. The primary distinction is that the first parable highlights an unexpected discovery, while the second illustrates the fulfillment of a long pursuit. \\n\\nAn example of those who experience a sudden revelation of hidden treasures can be seen in the Gentiles who, upon hearing the proclamations of Jesus Christ from the Apostles, realized that following God's will was essential for access to the kingdom set aside for the righteous. Enlightened by the apostles' teachings, many relinquished their earthly ties to seize the ultimate treasure found in Christ. The Lord likened these recipients of His message to a man who, while tending to a foreign field, unexpectedly uncovered a buried treasure and, recognizing its value, sold all he possessed to acquire the field and the treasure within. \\n\\nA notable seeker of truth who ultimately found it through Christ's teachings is St. Justin the Philosopher. In his writings, particularly ‘Conversation with Tryphon the Jew,’ he recounts his prior life as a pagan, where he explored various philosophical systems, with a particular admiration for Plato. Despite his studies, he found no answers to his profound inquiries about God, the soul, and its eternal nature until an elder, traditionally recognized as St. Polycarp, introduced him to Jesus Christ and the prophetic announcements of His return. Through careful examination of the prophecies and Gospels, Justin ultimately uncovered the singular, genuine philosophy he sought. Likewise, Tacianus, a disciple of Justin who discovered invaluable truths in the Gospel, also exemplifies the quest for precious pearls of wisdom."}]}
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