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Book of John - Chapter 12 - Verse 25

12:25
He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.

Meaning

This verse from the Bible is a reminder of the importance of prioritizing eternal life over the temporary pleasures of this world. It suggests that those who prioritize their own desires and comfort in this life will ultimately lose out on the opportunity for true fulfillment in the afterlife. On the other hand, those who are willing to sacrifice their worldly desires and comforts for the sake of following God's will and living a righteous life will be rewarded with eternal life. This verse serves as a caution against being consumed by materialistic pursuits and encourages believers to focus on spiritual growth and serving others. It emphasizes the fleeting nature of earthly life and the need to invest in actions and values that align with God's plan for salvation. In essence, this verse challenges believers to examine their priorities and make choices that align with their ultimate goal of attaining eternal life in God's kingdom.

Theological Overview

Many theologians interpret the verse 'He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal' as a call to prioritize spiritual matters over material possessions and worldly desires. The word studies reveal that the Greek word used for 'love' in this context, 'agapao,' often refers to a selfless, sacrificial love rather than a selfish, self-serving love. This suggests that Jesus is urging his followers to let go of their attachment to worldly comforts and instead focus on serving others and following God's will. Similarly, the word 'hate' in this passage, 'miseo,' can also convey the idea of detaching oneself from worldly values and priorities in order to fully commit to a life of faith and obedience. By letting go of earthly attachments and instead investing in a relationship with God, believers can find true fulfillment and eternal life.

American Standard Version

He that loveth his life loseth it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.
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