Matthew 16:24-28 – What Does It Profit?
Like Peter, the other disciples can not bear the idea of the crucifixion; they think that Jesus has come to set up an earthly kingdom; they do not see that He needs to suffer and die. They do not understand that true Christians must be prepared for trouble and self-denial if they follow Christ. The glorious kingdom they are expecting is not about to be set up immediately. They must make up their minds to persecution and affliction, if they intend to be His servants; they must be prepared to lose their lives if they would have their souls saved. It is good for us all to see this point clearly. We must not conceal from ourselves that true Christianity brings with it a daily cross in this life, while it offers us a crown of glory in the life to come. Our sinful selves must be daily crucified; the devil must be daily resisted; the world must be daily overcome. There is a warfare to be waged, and a battle to be fought.
These verses teach us that there is nothing so precious as a man’s soul. There is nothing on earth, or under the earth, that can make up for losing our souls; there is nothing that money can buy or man can give in comparison with our souls. The world and all that it contains is temporary, fading, and passing away. The soul is eternal.
Finally, Jesus teaches that at His Second Coming, His people shall receive their rewards. Jesus knows the heart of a man; He knows how quickly we get discouraged. So He gives us a promise. He reminds us that He will come again, and that this is the time when His disciples shall receive their good things. There will be glory, honour, and reward in abundance one day for all who have served and loved Jesus, but the bitter must come before the sweet, the cross before the crown.
Questions
- What is characteristic of life as a Christian?
- What will happen when Christ comes again?
Prayer Points
- Pray for the salvation of your family and friends.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.