“Then he said to them, ‘Therefore every scribe instructed concerning the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings out of his treasure things new and old.” Matthew 13:52
This week’s devotional blog is somewhat related to last week’s because they both address the subject of “treasure” in God’s kingdom. But there is a fresh insight and a different challenge in our text for this week. The verse above is the concluding thought of a series of parables in which Jesus was teaching various principles of the kingdom of God. The previous verses recorded in Matthew 13 contain many fresh insights about God’s kingdom and our focus verse quoted above also contains much-needed practical wisdom that will help us to grow in our relationship with God.
As usual, there are valuable treasures of truth that can be discovered as we examine the verse in the original language. The word ‘instructed’ in Matthew 13:52 comes from a Greek word that means ‘to disciple’ which in essence refers to helping someone progressively learn the Word of God to become a mature follower of Christ —not only in knowledge but also in lifestyle. This word paints a picture of continual growth and advancement in the faith.
The verse then continues to describe a true disciple of Christ by comparing them to a ‘householder who brings out of his treasure things new and old.’ The word householder refers to a person who is ‘in charge’ of managing a household with all of its assets. The description continues in reference to the householder bringing out valuable treasures that are both new and old.
So, what is Jesus teaching us in this verse? The ‘treasure’ that he is describing as ‘new and old’ actually relates to the truths about God’s kingdom that were revealed in the Old Testament and the fresh revelations in the parables that preceded this verse that would become some of the most valuable lessons of the New Testament. I believe there is a powerful application of this verse that can propel us forward in the faith. If we desire to be a true disciple of Christ, we cannot be complacent in our walk with God and stop learning and growing in Christ.
We can’t just rely on the ‘treasures’ of truth that God revealed to us in days gone by. We must stay committed to continually seek the Lord and study his Word in search of new treasures that God will use to enhance our spiritual strength and maturity. There is more treasure in God’s Word than we will ever be able to discover in this life—but we must stay committed to grow in our relationship with God through seeking his presence and studying his Word. A healthy disciple of Christ celebrates the revelations from the past but continues to passionately pursue the fresh insights from God’s Word for the present. Keep moving forward!
