3. (a) What questions did Jesus ask his listeners? (b) Of what might Jesus’ second question have reminded his listeners?

³ On that same occasion, Jesus asked two thought-provoking questions: “Of what benefit is it for a man to gain the whole world and to forfeit his soul?” and, “What, really, would a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Mark 8:36, 37) The answer to the first question is obvious from a human standpoint. It is of no benefit for a man to gain the whole world if he loses his life, his soul. Possessions are useful only if one is alive to enjoy them.

4. Why do Jesus’ questions have deeper meaning for Christians?

⁴ We know that Jesus did not come to earth to give us health, wealth, and a long life in this world. He came to open up the opportunity of living forever in the new world, and the prospect of that life is what we value highly. (John 3:16) A Christian would understand Jesus’ first question to mean, “Of what benefit is it for a man to gain the whole world and to forfeit his hope of everlasting life?” The answer is, Of no benefit at all. (1 John 2:15-17)