It is known simply as a “chicken cup,” but it was one of the most expensive Chinese cultural relics ever auctioned. It is a rare wine cup fired in the imperial kilns of China’s Ming dynasty more than 500 years ago. When purchased last month at a Sotheby’s auction in Hong Kong, it brought the astounding price of 36 million dollars Amazing! But there has been a much greater and costlier purchase. Paul told the Corinthians that they, and all believers belong to God, because we have been “bought at a price.” It was the price Jesus paid on the cross for our sins. “Christ died for us.” Doctor Luke, in the book of Acts spoke of the “church of God” (made up of all true believers) which Jesus “purchased with His own blood.” The purchase of the “chicken cup” will benefit it’s buyers, but the purchase made by Christ brings eternal benefits to all who receive the free gift He offers.

Pastor Alex Rockwell