The Greatest Treasure: Discussion Guide
View Sermon Video Here
In this sermon, Pastor Mike uses two parables from Matthew 13:44-46 to illustrate that Jesus is life's greatest treasure. He explains that Jesus is the treasure everyone is searching for, even if they don't realize it. The sermon highlights how Jesus offers what every human heart longs for: to be fully known and fully loved. Despite His immense value, Jesus is easy to miss because He appeared ordinary, but when truly discovered, He changes everything about our lives and priorities.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss the treasure that is Jesus, open our hearts to receive what You want to teach us today. Help us to see beyond the ordinary and recognize the extraordinary gift of Your Son. May our conversation be guided by Your Spirit, and may we each discover or rediscover the value of knowing Christ. We ask that You would reveal to us any areas where we've placed other treasures above Jesus in our lives. In His precious name we pray, Amen.
Ice Breaker
When you were a child, what was the most exciting thing you ever found or discovered while playing outside?
Key Verses
Matthew 13:44-46
Romans 5:8
Isaiah 53:2-3
Questions
Pastor Mike said that all humans want to be 'fully known and fully loved.' Why is this so difficult to find in human relationships, and how does Jesus uniquely fulfill this desire?
In the parable, the man who found the treasure in the field 'in his joy' sold everything he had to buy that field. What does this joy tell us about the nature of following Jesus?
What are some ways that Jesus might appear 'ordinary' or easy to miss in today's world?
The sermon mentioned that when we truly see how valuable Jesus is, it changes what we love. Can you share an example of how knowing Jesus has changed your priorities or values?
Pastor Mike compared the things of this world to waves that come and go. What are some 'waves' in your life that you might be tempted to treasure above Jesus?
How might our lives look different if we truly believed that Jesus is worth more than everything else combined?
The sermon stated that 'no one has ever asked for a refund' when it comes to following Jesus. Why do you think this is true, and what does it tell us about the value of knowing Him?
What practical steps can we take this week to ensure Jesus remains our greatest treasure rather than just one treasure among many?
Life Application
This week, take time to evaluate what you truly treasure most. Make a list of the top five things you spend your time, money, and emotional energy on. Then honestly assess: Does Jesus hold first place in your heart, or have other treasures taken His place? Choose one practical way to reorient your life around Jesus as your greatest treasure - perhaps by dedicating specific time each day to prayer and Scripture, giving up something that competes for your affection, or sharing with someone else why Jesus is so valuable to you.
Key Takeaways
Jesus is the treasure we all need - He offers what every human heart longs for: to be fully known and fully loved.
Despite His immense value, Jesus is easy to miss because He appeared ordinary and humble, not drawing attention to Himself through worldly power or status.
When we truly discover Jesus as our treasure, it changes everything about our lives - our priorities, values, and what we're willing to give up.
The Gospel isn't something we move beyond - it's a multifaceted diamond we spend our lives investigating and being transformed by. Jesus offers Himself as a free gift that we receive by faith, not something we can earn or buy.
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for being the treasure that our hearts have been searching for. We confess that we often chase after lesser treasures that promise satisfaction but never truly deliver. Forgive us for the times we've walked right past You, failing to recognize Your immeasurable worth. Help us to see You with fresh eyes and to treasure You above all else. May our lives reflect the joy of those who have found something of infinite value and are gladly willing to reorder everything around that discovery. Give us grace to trust You more each day, and to share this treasure with those still searching. In Your precious name we pray, Amen.