Definition: For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important and somewhat unsettling passage from Matthew 16:25. It’s a warning about the potential consequences of prioritizing someone else over your own well-being. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse speaks about a fundamental choice – one that has a significant, potentially irreversible consequence. It's saying that sacrificing yourself for another person is incredibly risky. Let’s unpack the phrases: “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it…” : This means if you put your own life at risk to help someone else, you will lose it. It's a direct consequence of your actions. It's not just about physical danger; it could be emotional, spiritual, or even your very existence. “…and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” : This is the crucial part. This isn’t just about you losing your life. It means someone who sacrifices their own life to help you find it – meaning they are saving you from a worse fate, or offering you a chance at something better. What does this mean practically? The verse is often interpreted as a warning against being overly selfless and prioritizing others' needs above your own. It suggests that: It’s easy to get caught up in helping others without considering the cost. Sometimes, we might be so focused on alleviating someone else's suffering that we neglect our own well-being and responsibilities. True love is about nurturing yourself too. The verse implies that true care for someone comes from a place of self-respect and understanding your own value. In essence, the verse isn’t saying you shouldn’t help others – it's saying you need to be mindful of how your actions impact you . It’s a call to balance compassion with self-preservation. Important Note: This is a complex passage with different interpretations throughout Christian history. It’s best understood within the context of the broader teachings about Jesus’ sacrifice and the importance of loving God and loved ones as yourself. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its historical or theological significance? Provide a relatable example of how this principle might apply to your life?