King James Version
What Does Matthew 10:39 Mean?
“He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.”
Context
37
He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.
38
And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.
39
He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.
40
He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me.
41
He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(39) **He that findeth his life.**—The word is the same as that translated “soul” (*i.e.,* that by which man lives in the lower or the higher sense of life) in Matthew 10:28. The point of the maxim lies in the contrast between the two senses. To gain the lower now is to lose the higher hereafter, and conversely, to lose the lower for the sake of Christ (*i.e.,* to die a martyr’s death in confessing Him) is to gain the higher.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Matthew 10:39 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Matthew 10:39
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge