Mark 8:36
For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?

Application: 

How does it benefit a believer to amass great wealth, notoriety, and power if he loses out on the abundant life God promises and his eternal rewards later? (8:36). Such a life is worthless. And we only get one chance to decide what kind of life we’ll lead. 

As missionary C. T. Studd wrote, “Only one life, ‘twill soon be past, / Only what’s done for Christ will last.” So don’t let the pleasures this world has to offer replace the true meaning of life. Don’t be ashamed of Christ and his words. Let his return be an experience of true joy, not of shame (8:38).

Mark 8:35, in saying, Whoever wants to save his life will lose it, Jesus wasn’t speaking to unbelievers. He was addressing those who had already decided to follow him. He wanted them to understand what it meant to be a disciple. Suppose you seek to preserve yourself from inconveniences and difficulties that come from identifying with Jesus. In that case, you will lose out on the abundant life that Christ promises—that is, the experience of a relationship with him now and an eternal reward later.

On the other hand, whoever loses his life because of [Jesus] and the gospel will save it. So if you are willing to deny yourself (telling your desires “no” when they come in conflict with the kingdom), to pursue God’s kingdom agenda in his Word, and to identify with Jesus Christ publicly, you will gain true life (that is, intimate experience with God) in history and even greater reward in eternity.

Reference: Tony Evans, The Tony Evans Bible Commentary (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2019), 938.

To God be the glory!

Our Lord Jesus Christ created everything! By Him, For Him!

“The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

Disclaimer

When God inspires me, I write blogs. Consider this writing as a Bible study. Like the Bereans in Acts 17:11, search the Scriptures to determine whether what I write is so. Always consult with your church ministers about biblical matters. I am also not a professional writer, so some grammar or spelling errors may be present. I try my best to write as efficiently as possible. Your brother in Christ, Ricardo

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My book, “Battle Strategy: God’s Plan Amid Chaos.” It’s packed with helpful insights into Bible study and understanding. You can get a free digital version on my website. Fifty percent of the proceeds from this book go to helping children. The book covers the main biblical points and salvation, so you’ll find something valuable. 

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