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Treasures From The Teacher

Matthew 13:51-52
'Have you understood all these things?' Jesus asked. 'Yes,' they replied. He said to them, 'Therefore every teacher of the law who has become a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old.' (NIVUK)

At the end a series of parables, Jesus asked His disciples if they understood.  They said they had, although it is difficult to know to what extent.  The first time people learn anything, its freshness catches their attention, and with an explanation (the disciples always needed the Lord's interpretation of the parables) they have a new insight.  However, when the teaching had to be used, the Holy Spirit would show the deep significance of what they had heard.  That would happen after Jesus went back to heaven, the Spirit was given, and the apostles were left to lead the churches (John 14:25-26).
 
A 'disciple' is a 'learner' who, through being taught, accumulates treasures to teach to others.  Nobody can teach what they have not first understood for themselves.  Alas, there were many 'teachers of the law' in Israel who did not understand what they had been taught and so had nothing to dispense to others.  But Jesus had been a 'disciple' of His Father and was the Lord of heaven, so He could share its treasures (John 14:24).  What the disciples had learned from Jesus were treasures to be stored up and then shared as the Holy Spirit taught the apostles how to apply them (Matthew 10:19-20).
 
There is no doubt that information about heaven (what it is, how to get there, who will enter and what will it be like) is a treasure store that countless philosophers and religious leaders claim to have.  But it is only given by Jesus to those who have chosen to submit their lives to Him (Matthew 13:11-17).  Then they store it in their hearts (Matthew 12:35) so that it is ready to share with whoever asks them or needs to know about Jesus, which is everybody! (2 Timothy 2:2).
 
The privilege of being a disciple of Jesus Christ cannot be underestimated.  We have peace with God, a home in heaven, a purpose on earth and countless treasures of eternal truth in our hearts.  We have this treasure trove because the Lord has revealed it to us.  However, it is not just for our education or pride of possession; it is for sharing. Jesus shared with the disciples, and as they were learning He sent them out as apostles.  They, through their writing, have clarified the gospel so that we can learn and then share with others.  Do not become a 'dead-end street' for gospel grace.  Let it flow through you to many others.

Prayer 
God of all knowledge and wisdom. Thank You for having taught others to teach me the treasures of the gospel. I am sorry for the many times I have not treasured the heavenly wealth of wisdom You have made available to me, and sorry for not passing it on to others. Please help me to realise the immense privilege I have in being Your child and enable me to make other disciples for Christ's sake. Amen.
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