Sermon synopsis: Jesus taught 7 consecutive parables in Matthew 13 about the kingdom. The parables, if understood, reveal the secrets of “the kingdom of heaven” (Matt 13:10-11). The 7 parables refer to 7 church ages. The sixth parable of 'The Pearl of Great Price' covers the period from approximately 1700 - 1900 AD or the 'Missionary Church'. But contrary to popular opinion the Pearl of Great Price is not Jesus and we are not the man.