Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: In the biblical context, "profiting" generally refers to the act of gaining or benefiting, whether materially, spiritually, or morally. The concept of profiting is addressed in various ways throughout Scripture, often highlighting the distinction between earthly and heavenly gains.Old Testament Insights: The Old Testament frequently addresses the idea of profit in terms of material wealth and the wisdom required to manage it. Proverbs 3:13-14 states, "Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who acquires understanding, for she is more profitable than silver, and her gain is better than fine gold." Here, wisdom is portrayed as a form of profit that surpasses material wealth, emphasizing the value of spiritual and moral understanding over mere financial gain. In Ecclesiastes, Solomon reflects on the futility of earthly pursuits, questioning the ultimate profit of labor under the sun. Ecclesiastes 1:3 asks, "What does a man gain from all his labor, at which he toils under the sun?" This rhetorical question underscores the transient nature of worldly profit compared to eternal values. New Testament Teachings: The New Testament further develops the theme of profiting by contrasting earthly wealth with spiritual riches. Jesus teaches in Matthew 16:26 , "What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?" This passage highlights the supreme value of the soul over any temporal gain, urging believers to prioritize their spiritual well-being. The Apostle Paul also addresses the concept of profit in his epistles. In 1 Timothy 4:8 , he writes, "For physical exercise is of limited value, but godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for the present life and for the one to come." Paul emphasizes that while physical discipline has some benefit, the pursuit of godliness yields eternal profit. Spiritual Profiting: Spiritual profiting involves growth in faith, character, and understanding of God's will. In Philippians 3:7-8 , Paul declares, "But whatever was gain to me I count as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things as loss compared to the surpassing excellence of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ." Here, Paul illustrates the ultimate profit found in a relationship with Christ, which surpasses all earthly achievements and possessions. Warnings Against Misplaced Priorities: Scripture warns against the dangers of prioritizing material profit over spiritual health. In 1 Timothy 6:9-10 , Paul cautions, "Those who want to be rich, however, fall into temptation and become ensnared by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. By craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows." This passage serves as a warning against the pursuit of wealth at the expense of one's spiritual integrity. Conclusion: The biblical perspective on profiting encourages believers to seek spiritual growth and eternal rewards over temporary, worldly gains. By prioritizing a relationship with God and the pursuit of godliness, Christians are called to find true profit in the things that hold eternal value. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Profit.2. (n.) Gain; advantage; profit. Library His Profiting by Peter's Instruction. Of True Meekness and Adversity: and of the Example of the Saints ... The Original Translator's Preface. Whether Lies are Sufficiently Divided into Officious, Jocose, and ... 1 Timothy iv. 14-Nov Ahab and Naboth The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt From an Epistle to Demetrius, Bishop of Alexandria. Fenelon -- the Saints Converse with God The Disciple, -- O Master, Fountain of Life! Why Dost Thou Hide ... Thesaurus Profiting (1 Occurrence)...Profiting (1 Occurrence). 1 Timothy 4:15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. (KJV WBS). ... /p/profiting.htm - 6k Profiteth (9 Occurrences) Profits (19 Occurrences) Gog (12 Occurrences) Meditate (37 Occurrences) Joppa (14 Occurrences) Appear (111 Occurrences) Asmoneans Thyself (352 Occurrences) Abraham (2539 Occurrences) Resources Profiting: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Profiting (1 Occurrence)1 Timothy 4:15 Subtopics Related Terms Uncircumcision (19 Occurrences) |