9. How do we obtain truth? John 17:17. Consider Psalm 51:6.
NOTE: ‘Salvation is a free gift, and yet it is to be bought and sold. In the market of which divine mercy has the management, the precious pearl is represented as being bought without money and without price. In this market all may obtain the goods of heaven. The treasury of the jewels of truth is open to all. “Behold, I have set before thee an open door,” the Lord declares, “and no man can shut it.” No sword guards the way through this door. Voices from within and at the door say, Come. The Saviour’s voice earnestly and lovingly invites us: “I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich.” Revelation 3:8, 18.’ Christ’s Object Lessons, page 116.
10. If we have to purchase salvation, what can we buy it with? Proverbs 23:26.
NOTE: ‘The poorest are as well able as the richest to purchase salvation; for no amount of worldly wealth can secure it. It is obtained by willing obedience, by giving ourselves to Christ as His own purchased possession.. . . We cannot earn salvation, but we are to seek for it with as much interest and perseverance as though we would abandon everything in the world for it. We are to seek for the pearl of great price, but not in worldly marts or in worldly ways. The price we are required to pay is not gold or silver, for this belongs to God. Abandon the idea that temporal or spiritual advantages will win for you salvation. God calls for your willing obedience. He asks you to give up your sins.’ Christ’s Object Lessons, page 117.
11. How do we hold on to truth? Proverbs 23:23.
NOTE: ‘Solomon charges us to “buy the truth, and sell it not.” Purchase it at any price, and part with it at none. Many have refused to give its price, and others have parted with it, infinitely below its worth. Paul, who had made great sacrifices to obtain this precious pearl, when writing to the Christian Hebrews, who had also given their all for it, said, “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; for He is faithful that promised.” Not a few have done this. A poor girl, who resided on the seacoast of England, was asked, when dying, by a clergyman, what she thought of Jesus; her reply was beautiful and sublime , “Jesus,” said she, “I cleave to Him as the limpets to the rocks.” Excellent girl, who does not almost envy her? Yes, the Christian will cling to Jesus in spite of everything. The stormy ocean, hurling its destructive fury around, only causes the limpets to cleave to the rocks more firmly.’ James White: Review & Herald, August 1, 1854.