Definition: For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this famous biblical passage from Luke 9:25. It's a really thought-provoking question that gets to the heart of what it means to truly live a meaningful life. Here's my explanation in simple terms: The Core Idea: Jesus is asking a profound question about the value of pursuing everything – winning the whole world – at the expense of our own happiness and sense of purpose. He’s essentially saying, “If you focus so much on accumulating wealth and power, you might lose yourself in the process and end up feeling lost and alone.” Let's unpack it: “For what is a man advantaged…” – This is a rhetorical question, meaning it’s a question meant to provoke thought. It’s not asking what he’s advantaged for. “…if he gain the whole world…” – This refers to achieving worldly success, wealth, power, fame, and everything that humans often pursue. Basically, becoming incredibly wealthy and influential. "...and lose himself..." – This is the crucial part. It means that chasing these things can distract us from what truly matters: our relationships, our values, our spiritual growth, and our connection with God. We become so focused on getting something that we forget to be someone good and meaningful. "...or be cast away?" – This is a powerful image. It suggests being adrift, without purpose, without love, and ultimately, without a sense of belonging or fulfillment in life. In essence, the verse warns against pursuing worldly success at the expense of your own soul. It emphasizes that true happiness isn’t found in material possessions but in a relationship with God and living a virtuous life. What does this mean for us today? It's a reminder to: Focus on what truly matters: Don't get so caught up in chasing goals that you neglect your relationships, your faith, and your personal growth. Don’t lose sight of our purpose: We need to remember why we were created – to love God and be loved by Him. Seek a deeper sense of fulfillment: A life lived according to God's will is far more rewarding than any material gain. Do you want me to explain this verse further, perhaps through a metaphor or relating it to a specific biblical story? Just let me know!