Matthew 10:39 – Whoever finds his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it

In this Bible study, we are going to explore the deep meaning of Matthew 10:39 , where Jesus says, “ Whoever finds his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” These words have a powerful impact on our Christian lives, revealing essential principles for discipleship and the journey of faith. Throughout this study, we will examine each aspect of this passage, seeking to understand what Jesus meant by “finding life,” “losing life,” and “losing life for Jesus’ sake.”

The Meaning of “Find Your Life”

As we reflect on what it means to “find your life,” we must look at the context in which Jesus made this statement. He was instructing his disciples before sending them out to proclaim the gospel of the Kingdom. Finding life here is not about physical life or simply existing, but about a search for satisfaction and meaning in our existence. Many people live in search of purpose and happiness, seeking to fill their lives with material things, personal accomplishments or relationships.

The Bible warns against relying on temporary riches or pleasures to find meaning and purpose (1 Timothy 6:17). Jesus wants us to find true life, which can only be found in a personal and deep relationship with Him (John 14:6). This full life is a life of intimacy with God, a life transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit, and a life lived according to the principles of the Kingdom of God.

The Meaning of “Losing Your Life”

Now, let’s examine what it means to “lose your life.” The idea of ​​losing one’s life may seem frightening at first sight, but here Jesus is not talking about destruction or annihilation, but about renunciation and total surrender to Him. Losing life means abandoning the selfish pursuit of control and autonomy, submitting ourselves to God’s will in all areas of our lives.

Jesus illustrates this principle through His own example, for He Himself “did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28). Losing one’s life also refers to the humility of recognizing our need for a Savior, recognizing that we cannot save ourselves by our own efforts (Ephesians 2:8-9). It is the recognition that true and abundant life is only found when we surrender control to the Lordship of Jesus in our lives.

The Meaning of “Losing Your Life for Jesus’ Sake”

Now, let’s dive into the third part of this passage, where Jesus tells us about “losing your life for my sake.” This involves a willingness to prioritize Jesus above everything else in our lives. Loving Jesus implies loving Him above anything else, putting Him at the center of our decisions, thoughts and actions.

Losing one’s life for Jesus’ sake means being willing to face hardship, persecution, and even martyrdom for the sake of our faith (Luke 9:23-24). Jesus warned us that the world would hate us, but he encouraged us to be steadfast and faithful, for the reward of eternal life is infinitely greater than any temporary suffering (John 15:18-21).

Loving Jesus also motivates us to obey His commandments (John 14:15). This is not legalistic obedience, but a response of gratitude and love for the sacrifice He made for us on the cross. By losing our lives for Jesus’ sake, we become His true disciples, willing to follow Him under any circumstances, trusting His plan and purpose for our lives.

The Message of Matthew 10:39

Based on our understanding of the three parts of this passage, we can discern the central message of Matthew 10:39. Jesus is calling us to a total surrender to Him, an unconditional surrender of our lives. When we try to find satisfaction and meaning in the things of this world, we end up empty and dissatisfied. But when we relinquish control and trust Jesus fully, we find true life—abundant and eternal life.

This message is not just an invitation, but a challenge. It confronts our priorities, our ambitions, and our motivations. It means putting aside our own selfish desires to embrace the greater purpose God has for us. It is a call to deny ourselves, take up the cross daily and follow Jesus (Luke 9:23).

Here, Jesus reminds us that authentic life can only be found in an intimate relationship with Him. He is the source of true life, and when we choose Him above all else, He transforms our lives and brings us into the fullness of His will.

How to Apply Matthew 10:39 in My Life

Applying Matthew 10:39 in our daily lives is an ongoing process of surrender and seeking God’s will. Here are some practical ways to live the principles in this passage:

1. Seek God in Prayer and Study of the Word: Finding life in Jesus begins with a sincere search for Him. Make time daily for prayer and Bible study, seeking to know more about the character and will of God.

2. Renouncing Selfishness and Submitting to God: Losing life implies abandoning our selfish desires and choosing God’s will in all areas of our lives, whether in personal, professional or financial decisions.

3. Putting Jesus First in All Things: Loving Jesus above all else means putting Him first in our hearts and minds. He must be the center of our motives and actions.

4. Embrace the Cross Daily: The Christian life is not without its challenges, but as we embrace our cross daily and trust in Jesus, we discover the grace and power that sustain us.

5. Witnessing the Love of Jesus: Losing one’s life for the sake of Jesus also implies being witnesses of His love and salvation to others. Living a life that reflects the character of Christ is a powerful way to proclaim the gospel.

6. Persevere in Adversity: Facing persecution and difficulties is part of following Jesus. Persevere, knowing that the reward of eternal life is infinitely greater than any temporary suffering.

7. Cultivate Fellowship with the Church: The Christian life is not a lonely journey. Cultivate fellowship with other believers, seeking mutual encouragement and support in the walk of faith.

8. Seek to Grow in Holiness: As we commit our lives to Jesus, He empowers us to live lives of holiness and righteousness. Seek to grow in obedience and dependence on God.

Life in Christ: A Transformative Journey

Completing this Bible study leads us to a deeper understanding of Matthew 10:39. Finding true life in Jesus requires renunciation, surrender and submission to his lordship. Losing one’s life for Jesus’ sake is not a loss but an eternal gain. It is the beginning of a transformative journey, where the search for meaning and fulfillment finds its purpose in an intimate relationship with the Creator of the universe.

As we apply Matthew 10:39 to our lives, we are invited to leave behind our selfish ways and embrace the way of Christ. It is a challenging but rewarding journey as we find true life that transcends this earthly existence.

May we, as followers of Jesus, live with passion and purpose, willing to lay down our lives for the love of Him and His Kingdom. May Christ’s example of service and sacrifice be the beacon that guides our daily lives, until the day we meet Him face to face and enjoy the fullness of eternal life in His presence.

“For everyone who wants to save his life will lose it; but everyone who loses his life for my sake and for the gospel’s sake will save it.” (Mark 8:35)

“So let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself of no reputation, taking the form of a servant, being made if similar to men; And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, becoming obedient unto death, even death on a cross.” (Philippians 2:5-8)

“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the Father’s love is not in him.” (1 John 2:15)

“And behold, I am coming quickly, and my reward is with me to give each one according to his work.” (Revelation 22:12)

“And the world passes away, and its lust; but he who does the will of God abides forever.” (1 John 2:17)

Conclusion

In Matthew 10:39, Jesus presents a powerful invitation and challenge to all who follow Him. Finding true life is not a search for the passing and empty things of this world, but a total surrender to Him, embracing the eternal purpose that God has for our lives.

Losing your life for the love of Jesus is the path to a transformed life, full of meaning and purpose. It is the recognition that Jesus is the source of true life, and when we prioritize Him in everything, we are filled with His joy and peace.

May we embrace the call of Jesus in Matthew 10:39, living each day for Him and for His Kingdom. By losing our lives for His sake, we will find true life, which extends beyond this earthly life and settles down in eternity alongside our Lord and Savior.

May this Bible study be a practical guide to living a life that glorifies God, loving Him above all else and serving Him with all your heart. May our journey of faith be marked by wholehearted surrender, perseverance through adversity, and continual growth in holiness, until the day we meet face to face with our beloved Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.