The worth of the soul
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...