Biblica - Vol 89 (2008) Schmidt, Ulrich, Zum Paradox vom 'Verlieren' und 'Finden' des Lebens (2008)

Jesus’ paradox of losing and finding one’s life is well attested. According to its contexts, interpreters relate the logion predominantly to martyrdom and death. But a closer look reveals that this word is an assertion in favour of life which functions as a maxim of Jesus’ teaching and view of life. It is the context many of his sayings and behavorial patterns. The issue of a 'recompense' after death is merely a consequence of the original intention.