Matthew 16:26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? In order to elucidate the meaning of the text — I. INSTITUTE A COMPARISON BETWEEN THE THINGS WHICH ARE HERE SET IN COMPETITION with each other. 1. By" the world," we are to understand pleasure, riches, and honour. This, if considered in itself, is vile. It is earthly in its nature. It is unsatisfying in its use. It is transitory in its continuance. "If it be considered as it has"been estimated by the best judges, it is worthless (Hebrews 2:8, 9; 24-26; Ecclesiastes 1:14; Philippians 3:8; John 6:15; John 17:16). 2. The "soul," on the contrary, if considered in itself, is noble. It is exalted in its origin (Hebrews 12:9). Capacious in its powers. Eternal in its duration. Doomed to everlasting happiness or misery. As estimated by the best judges, it is invaluable (Acts 20:24). The gift of God's Son to die for it — of infinite value in His sight. Such being the disparity between the value of the world and that of the soul, we are prepared to — II. SEE THE RESULT OF THE COMPARISON. We suppose, for argument sake, that a man may possess the whole world. We suppose also that, after having possessed it for awhile, he loses his own soul. What, in the issue, "would he be profited"? 1. Enquire concerning this in general. Would carnal enjoyments compensate for the loss of heaven? Would transient pleasures counterbalance an eternity of glory? Would he have anything to mitigate his pain (Luke 16:24)? 2. Enquire more particularly. These questions are strong appeals to our hearts and consciences. They bid defiance to all the arts of sophistry. Let the "lover of pleasure" etc., etc., ask, "What shall it profit me," etc.? Conclusion: Which have I more regarded hitherto, the world, or my own soul? Which do I intend in future to prefer, etc.? (C. Simeon.) Parallel Verses KJV: For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? |
    |