Mark 8:36
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
For what shall it profit a man,.... In the long run, in the issue of things, who by denying Christ, and his Gospel, may not only save his life for the present, but procure for himself great riches and wealth: if he shall gain the whole world; were that possible to be done, and which the ambitious, worldly man is desirous of; yet supposing he: had his desire, of what avail would this be in the upshot of things, should the following be his case, as it will, and lose his own soul? which is immortal and everlasting, when the world, and the glory of it pass away, and so is of more worth than the whole world. The world can only be enjoyed for a season, and that with a great deal of fatigue and trouble; but the soul continues for ever; and if it is lost and damned, its torment always abides, and the smoke of it ascends for ever, its worm never dies, and its fire is never quenched; See Gill on Mat 16:26.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
8:36-37 The implied answer to Jesus’ rhetorical question is that possessing the entire world has no value if you give up eternal life. “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose” (Jim Elliot). You need your soul to enjoy the benefits of the world to come. When you forfeit your life or soul, there is nothing you can give to purchase it back.
Mark 8:36
Take Up Your Cross
35For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and for the gospel will save it.36What does it profit a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?37Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Please Sir Save Me!
By William Booth12K02:16Classic RecordingsMAT 16:24MAT 19:21MRK 8:36LUK 12:33LUK 14:331TI 6:17JAS 2:14In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a gold miner on a ship that gets caught in a storm and starts sinking. A little girl asks the miner if he can swim, and he realizes he cannot save both her and his gold. He chooses to save the girl and throws his gold overboard. He jumps into the water and swims until he reaches safety. The preacher uses this story to encourage the listeners to put their trust in God and help those in need, even if it means sacrificing their own comfort or possessions.
Attributes of God (Series 1): God's Immanence and Immensity
By A.W. Tozer7.1K53:16Attributes of GodPSA 27:8ISA 40:31MAT 16:25MRK 8:36ACT 2:1PHP 3:8COL 3:3In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the marvel of how things in the world are held together. They share personal anecdotes about their younger brother's fear of falling up and their own wonder about the stability of nations. The speaker then comes to the realization that everything in existence has its being in the love of God, who created and sustains it. They emphasize the importance of having faith in God and finding solace in His love and protection. The sermon concludes with a call to seek God through prayer and to prioritize Him above worldly possessions.
True Discipleship - Part 1
By William MacDonald4.8K27:48DiscipleshipMRK 8:36JHN 2:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of maintaining zeal for God in the Christian life. He warns against getting caught up in worldly pursuits and living a life without true passion for God. The speaker shares a story about a young man who works for Ford Motor Company and is also involved in singing at funerals. He highlights the need for Christians to set boundaries and prioritize their devotion to God above all else. The sermon also mentions the example of C.T. Stud, who dedicated his life to serving God in various continents and was inspired by an article written by an atheist.
Preaching on Alcohol
By Billy Sunday4.2K02:22PRO 11:4MAT 6:33MRK 8:36PHP 3:81JN 2:15This sermon emphasizes the need for righteousness and the importance of turning to Jesus for true fulfillment and purpose. It highlights the consequences of seeking satisfaction in material things like alcohol, luxury cars, or fame, and the emptiness that follows. The message calls for a shift in focus towards God and righteousness rather than worldly desires.
Don't Preach About Hell! (Compilation)
By Compilations3.8K22:58CompilationPRO 22:16MAT 6:24MAT 19:24MRK 8:36LUK 12:151TI 6:10JAS 5:1The video is a sermon that emphasizes the importance of recognizing oneself as a child of God. The speaker repeats the phrase "You are my child" multiple times to drive this point home. The sermon also touches on the need for individuals to create a new style or way of living that aligns with God's teachings. The speaker acknowledges the challenges and temptations faced in life but encourages listeners to stay focused on their faith. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the love and guidance of God and encourages listeners to embrace their identity as children of God.
His Immensity - Part 1
By A.W. Tozer3.5K17:32ImmensityPRO 14:12MAT 7:13MAT 16:25MRK 8:36JHN 14:6PHP 3:8COL 3:3In this video, the speaker discusses the concept of God's imminence and how we don't have to go far to find God because He is present in everything. The speaker mentions a formula that emphasizes the idea that God is right here with us. They also read a couple of Bible verses that highlight the importance of losing our lives for Christ in order to find true life. The speaker references a book called "The Revelation of Divine Love" written by Julian 600 years ago, where she describes a vision of a small object representing all of creation. The speaker concludes by mentioning their intention to occasionally quote from old books throughout the series.
The Life of c.t. Studd
By George Stevenson3.2K46:47C.T. StuddMAT 6:33MRK 8:36ACT 26:182TI 4:2HEB 11:35HEB 11:38In this sermon, the preacher discusses the life and ministry of C.T. Studd, a missionary who dedicated his life to spreading the gospel. Studd's conviction to go to China was solidified when he read the Bible verse about a man's foes being those of his own household. He was joined by six other men, known as the Cambridge Seven, and together they sparked a revival among student groups in England. Studd committed himself to living for Christ and doing God's will alone, regardless of what others said. Through his obedience and faith, Studd left a lasting legacy and was used by God in a remarkable way.
(Basics) 46. the Love of Money Is Evil
By Zac Poonen3.1K13:11MAT 6:24MAT 6:33MRK 8:361TI 6:9In this sermon, the preacher uses a story of a girl's change of heart towards two different young men to illustrate how our love for money and material things can be replaced by a love for God. The preacher emphasizes that love cannot be forced and that it is only when we truly appreciate the goodness and love of Jesus that our attraction to earthly things will vanish. The sermon warns that if we claim to be believers but still love money, we do not truly love God. The preacher encourages the audience to examine their hearts and prioritize their love for God over material possessions.
His Immensity - Part 3
By A.W. Tozer3.1K22:49ImmensityPSA 46:10ISA 64:1MRK 8:36PHP 3:8COL 3:3HEB 4:9REV 21:4In this sermon, the preacher addresses the deep longing and emptiness that exists within every human soul. He emphasizes that even though people may have fame, success, and worldly pleasures, they still cry out for something more. The preacher suggests that this longing can only be satisfied by a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. He encourages the audience to seek God in silence and prayer, and to prioritize their spiritual well-being over worldly pursuits. The sermon concludes with a call to surrender the world and find true fulfillment in Jesus alone.
Agony by Leonard Ravenhill
By Compilations3.0K06:06MAT 7:21MAT 16:24MRK 8:36LUK 9:23LUK 14:271CO 9:16GAL 2:20PHP 3:71TI 6:5This sermon emphasizes the sacrificial nature of following Jesus, highlighting the need to surrender all rights and desires to Him, just as Paul considered himself a bond slave of Jesus Christ. It challenges believers to preach with passion rather than professionalism, to avoid commercialism in ministry, and to prioritize sacrifice over success. The message warns against spiritual complacency, self-centeredness, and the danger of managing life without God. It calls for obedience, readiness to bear burdens, and a deep commitment to sacrificial love and service.
Cross Talk Show 1 - Part 1
By K.P. Yohannan2.9K08:33MAT 6:21MAT 6:24MRK 8:36LUK 16:10ROM 10:14ROM 10:171CO 9:161TI 6:101JN 2:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel with those who have not heard, highlighting the need for believers to submit their will and resources to God, be good stewards, and make sacrifices for the Kingdom. It challenges listeners to evaluate their love for the world and to prioritize the eternal over the temporary, especially in the small things that may hinder their fruitfulness for God's kingdom.
Apostasy/healing/prosperity?
By Zac Poonen2.7K03:47PRO 28:13MAT 6:33MRK 8:36JHN 8:32JHN 14:62TH 2:32TI 4:3JAS 4:41JN 1:8This sermon delves into 2 Thessalonians chapter 2, emphasizing the warning about the last days and the deception that will lead many Christians astray. It highlights the danger of prioritizing earthly prosperity over holiness and seeking physical healing above deliverance from sin, which is considered a falling away from the true faith. The speaker challenges the prevalent focus on material wealth and physical healing in modern Christianity, contrasting it with the teachings of Jesus and the apostles.
Examining the Foundations of Godly Leadership
By Aaron Hurst1.9K1:20:45LeadershipPSA 90:8ECC 12:14ISA 59:2MAT 11:28MRK 8:36JHN 8:36REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker begins by acknowledging his weakness and dependence on the Lord Jesus Christ. He then addresses the topic of godly leadership and the importance of examining its foundations. He challenges the audience to reflect on their use of the Internet, their relationships with their families, and their attitudes towards materialism and prosperity. The speaker emphasizes the need to prioritize the word of God and avoid being choked by worldly cares and desires.
The Will of God - Part 2
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K48:57Will Of GodEXO 3:8MAT 6:33MRK 8:36LUK 9:23JHN 13:6HEB 12:24In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of renunciation in the Christian life. He highlights how God often puts us in situations where we must choose to let go or hold on to something. The speaker explains that God's will for us is to be enriched with His fullness, not for selfish purposes, but for His glory. He emphasizes that renunciation is a discipline that allows us to be rewarded by God and experience His peace and rest. The speaker also references biblical examples of renunciation and how God promises to give His people abundance while also requiring them to let go.
Leonard Ravenhill on Wotm Radio Program
By Compilations1.6K03:07MAT 7:21MAT 16:26MAT 25:21MRK 8:36LUK 9:23JHN 14:15PHP 2:171TI 6:5JAS 4:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of sacrificial living and true devotion to God over material prosperity. It challenges believers to focus on eternal impact rather than temporary gains, highlighting the significance of selfless sacrifice and obedience in the Christian walk. The speaker warns against complacency and the danger of living a life without actively pursuing God's will, stressing the eternal consequences of neglecting spiritual growth and service.
(Through the Bible) Genesis 29-31
By Chuck Smith1.5K53:14ExpositionalGEN 28:19GEN 30:35GEN 31:10MRK 8:36ROM 3:23GAL 3:28In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the equality and value of all individuals in the eyes of God. He highlights the universal need for a Savior and the unity found in Jesus Christ, where distinctions such as race, social status, and gender hold no significance. The speaker then shifts to the story of Jacob and his encounter with Laban and his daughters. Jacob meets Rachel, Laban's daughter, at a well where they wait for others to gather and move a large rock to access the water. Laban welcomes Jacob into his home and offers him the opportunity to set his own wages for his service.
The Failure of Modern Christianity - 2
By Zacharias Tanee Fomum1.5K1:39:43Modern ChristianityMAT 4:19MAT 25:40MAT 28:19MRK 8:36LUK 12:15LUK 19:10JAS 1:27In this video, the speaker repeatedly emphasizes the importance of looking at examples. He encourages the audience to pay attention and examine the examples he provides. The speaker urges the viewers to read and understand the content he is presenting. Throughout the video, the speaker continuously repeats the phrase "Look at this" to emphasize the significance of examining the examples he shares. The video seems to be focused on the idea of learning and gaining insight from the examples presented.
You Cannot Love God and the World
By James La Belle1.5K37:02WorldlinessHOS 10:1MAT 6:33MRK 8:36MRK 12:30In this sermon, the focus is on Mark 12:30, where Jesus commands us to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. The preacher acknowledges the difficulty of this command and prays for God's grace to enable us to fulfill it. The sermon emphasizes the importance of separating ourselves from the world and looking to God, rather than being enticed by worldly desires. The preacher concludes by challenging the listeners to examine their hearts and determine whether they truly love God or if they are more attached to the world.
A Sermon From Hell
By Scott Ardavanis1.4K41:22HellMAT 6:33MRK 8:36LUK 16:15JHN 3:16ROM 10:14In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of the rich man and Lazarus from Luke 16:19-31. He believes that this account is not a parable but an actual description of the afterlife. The preacher emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel and the hope found in Jesus Christ. He highlights the contrast between the rich man, who is detestable in the sight of God, and Lazarus, a poor man who finds favor with God. The sermon encourages listeners to be change agents in spreading the message of salvation.
Prove Me Now - Part 2
By Keith Daniel1.2K09:301SA 2:30PSA 41:1PRO 11:24PRO 19:17MAT 6:24MAT 19:24MRK 8:36LUK 16:13ROM 12:21TI 6:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of honoring God in business decisions, even when faced with pressure to compromise. It tells the story of a man who chose to show kindness and compassion to the poor, leading to unexpected blessings and financial success despite initial opposition and ridicule. The narrative highlights the principle of God honoring those who honor Him, even in the realm of finances and business.
The Certainity of Death
By Eli Brayley1.2K30:42PSA 73:1MRK 8:36This sermon delves into the temptation of envying the prosperity of the wicked and the struggle of questioning God's justice when the ungodly seem to thrive. Asaph's journey through this temptation, realization of the ultimate fate of the wicked, and the joy found in God's sanctuary are explored, highlighting the fleeting nature of worldly gain and the eternal hope in God.
Living for Eternity 1 - Part 2
By Joshua Daniel1.2K08:38MAT 6:19MAT 6:24MAT 6:34MAT 16:26MRK 8:36LUK 12:151TI 6:10JAS 4:141PE 5:8This sermon emphasizes the danger of allowing money to dictate our lives, urging listeners to prioritize spiritual growth over material possessions. It contrasts the worldly focus on wealth with the example of Jesus, who prioritized spiritual authority and service over financial concerns. The speaker shares personal experiences of witnessing demon possession and highlights the importance of being prepared for eternity, living each day as if it could be our last.
Fake Wealth
By Jim Cymbala1.1K31:07WealthDEU 8:11MAT 6:19MAT 16:24MRK 8:36LUK 9:23JHN 3:16ROM 10:9In this sermon, the preacher discusses the issue of greed and the false perception of wealth. He emphasizes that life does not consist of material possessions and warns against the dangers of greed in all its forms. The preacher shares a parable about a rich man who plans to build bigger barns to store his surplus grain, thinking he has secured his future. However, God intervenes and calls him a fool, as his life will be demanded from him that very night. The preacher also cautions against false ministers who manipulate people for their own financial gain, promising blessings in exchange for money.
Pilgrims Problems No. 3 Strong Drink
By Willie Mullan1.1K53:49Strong DrinkEXO 2:122SA 6:6MAT 6:33MRK 8:36ROM 1:242PE 2:14In this sermon, the preacher discusses the negative effects of the book, highlighting its role in bringing misery, immorality, blasphemy, stupidity, incapability, and leading to eternity. The preacher also mentions the upcoming topic of divorce and invites the audience to bring their Bibles for a deeper understanding. The sermon includes singing of hymns, specifically referencing hymn number 848, which emphasizes the grand theme of God's ability to deliver. The preacher shares a personal anecdote about a minister drinking Guinness and discusses the importance of the soul and the consequences of worldly pursuits.
How Do You Value Your Soul
By Peter Orasuk1.1K24:13SoulMAT 6:33MRK 8:36JHN 3:16ACT 16:31ROM 6:23HEB 12:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of the Three Bitters. He describes how the world offers temporary fame and pleasure, but ultimately leaves individuals empty. Satan also tempts people with the pleasures of sin, but again, this leads to emptiness. However, the Son of God offers the highest bid for our souls, offering eternal joy, a home in heaven, and the Father's love. The preacher emphasizes the importance of choosing Christ over the temporary pleasures of the world.
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
For what shall it profit a man,.... In the long run, in the issue of things, who by denying Christ, and his Gospel, may not only save his life for the present, but procure for himself great riches and wealth: if he shall gain the whole world; were that possible to be done, and which the ambitious, worldly man is desirous of; yet supposing he: had his desire, of what avail would this be in the upshot of things, should the following be his case, as it will, and lose his own soul? which is immortal and everlasting, when the world, and the glory of it pass away, and so is of more worth than the whole world. The world can only be enjoyed for a season, and that with a great deal of fatigue and trouble; but the soul continues for ever; and if it is lost and damned, its torment always abides, and the smoke of it ascends for ever, its worm never dies, and its fire is never quenched; See Gill on Mat 16:26.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
8:36-37 The implied answer to Jesus’ rhetorical question is that possessing the entire world has no value if you give up eternal life. “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose” (Jim Elliot). You need your soul to enjoy the benefits of the world to come. When you forfeit your life or soul, there is nothing you can give to purchase it back.