RESTORE

This chapter from the BFG Handbook (Christian Edition of the Tao Te Ching) presents the gospel through a new "Expression" of God’s Love to RESTORE the Truth.

Chapter 50: To Die is Gain

 

From birth to death a
Three in ten are followers of life
Three in ten are followers of death b
Three in ten live life and quickly step into death c
Why is this so?
Because they strive excessively for worldly life d

I heard whoever loses his life will find it a
When traveling the roads they encounter no rhinos or tigers e
When going into battle they are not harmed by weapons 
Rhinos have nowhere to drive their horns 
Tigers have nowhere to thrust their claws 
Soldiers have nowhere to lodge their blades 
Why is this so?
Because death no longer has mastery over them

 

a Matthew 10:39; b Galatians 6:7-10; c Luke 8:13-14; d 1 John 2:15-17; Romans 12:2; e John 5:24-26; Romans 6:1-10; Revelation 2:10-11.

Chapter 50 of the Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching explores profound themes of life, death, and the eternal perspective offered by Christ. It begins by observing that from birth to death, people are divided into three groups: one-third follow the path of life, another third follow the path of death, and the final third seem to live life but quickly step into death. The underlying reason for this, as the chapter explains, is that many strive excessively for worldly life. This reflects the Christian teaching that those who live for the things of this world—materialism, power, and success—ultimately find themselves disconnected from true life, which is in Christ. In 1 John 2:15-17, believers are warned not to love the world or the things in it because the world’s desires are fleeting, and those who pursue them will not find lasting fulfillment. Similarly, Romans 12:2 urges believers not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds.

The chapter then turns to the paradox that whoever loses his life will find it, echoing the words of Jesus in Matthew 10:39, where He says, “Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.” In Christian theology, this paradox highlights the call to die to oneself and the world’s desires in order to truly live in Christ. It is in surrendering one’s life to God that the believer gains eternal life, which transcends earthly death.

The chapter goes on to explain that those who embrace this path of surrender encounter no harm, even when facing dangerous situations. When traveling, they are not harmed by the wild beasts, and when going into battle, they are not affected by weapons. This symbolizes the protection and peace that come to those who have died to themselves and live for God. John 5:24-26 speaks of this idea of spiritual life and death, stating that those who hear the Word of God and believe in Him who sent Jesus have eternal life and will not be judged but have crossed over from death to life. This spiritual transformation means that death no longer has dominion over them. Similarly, in Romans 6:1-10, Paul explains that believers, through baptism, die with Christ and are raised to live a new life, free from the power of sin and death.

The passage concludes with a powerful image of those who no longer fear death because they have transcended it through their faith in Christ. In Revelation 2:10-11, believers are encouraged to remain faithful, even to the point of death, because “the one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death.” This is a reminder that those who live for Christ, who have surrendered their worldly desires and found life in Him, are not subject to the fear or power of physical death. They are promised eternal life, and in this eternal perspective, death loses its sting and cannot harm them.

This chapter, when viewed through the lens of Christian faith, reinforces the paradox of the Gospel: that in losing our life for Christ, we gain true life. It invites believers to look beyond the temporal, material world and to embrace the eternal life offered through surrender to God. This surrender leads to spiritual protection and peace, freeing believers from the fear of death and aligning them with God’s eternal purpose.



RENEWAL

The Trinitarian Method (M.A.P.) is the framework for RENEWAL, where God’s Love shapes our MINDSET, Trust in the Son directs our AIM, and Faith in the Holy Spirit guides our PRACTICE.

Mindset:

1. Mindset of Surrendering to God’s Will

  • Line from this chapter: “Three in ten are followers of life, Three in ten are followers of death, Three in ten live life and quickly step into death, Because they strive excessively for worldly life.”

  • Mindset: Cultivate a mindset of surrender, accepting that striving excessively for worldly success can lead to spiritual emptiness and ultimately to death. Instead of pursuing material gain at all costs, we should align ourselves with God’s will, seeking spiritual life above worldly success.

  • Explanation: In today’s world, we are often pressured to constantly strive for career success, wealth, and status. This mindset can lead to stress, discontentment, and a spiritual void. The principle of surrendering our desires for worldly gain encourages us to focus on what truly matters: our relationship with God and spiritual fulfillment. By letting go of our attachment to worldly things, we find peace and purpose that transcends the temporary highs of success and material wealth.

  • Real-world application: Prioritize spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, and worship. Evaluate your daily actions and decisions — are they driven by the pursuit of success or by seeking God’s will? Focus on nurturing relationships, serving others, and growing spiritually instead of overworking or excessively seeking material gain.

  • Scriptures:

    • Matthew 16:25: “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.”
    • Philippians 3:7-8: “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.”

2. Mindset of Trusting God’s Protection

  • Line from this chapter: “When traveling the roads, they encounter no rhinos or tigers. When going into battle, they are not harmed by weapons.”

  • Mindset: Develop a mindset of trust in God’s protection and presence. Believe that when we align with God’s will, we are shielded from unnecessary harm and danger. The risks and dangers of life, whether physical or spiritual, are mitigated when we place our trust in God.

  • Explanation: In a world full of uncertainties and threats, it’s easy to become fearful and anxious. However, this principle reminds us that by walking in alignment with God’s will, we are protected. God doesn’t promise a life free from challenges, but He does promise to be with us through them, providing us with peace, strength, and security.

  • Real-world application: Before undertaking any challenging task, remind yourself of God’s promises of protection. Whether it’s a new job, a move to a new city, or facing a conflict, pray for God’s guidance and protection. Trust that He will direct your steps and guard you from harm.

  • Scriptures:

    • Psalm 91:11: “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”
    • Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

3. Mindset of Embracing the Peace Beyond Fear of Death

  • Line from this chapter: “Death no longer has mastery over them.”

  • Mindset: Develop a mindset where the fear of death no longer holds sway over your decisions and actions. Embrace the peace that comes with knowing eternal life is secure in God through Christ. The fear of death can paralyze us, but when we understand that we are already promised eternal life, we are freed to live fully in God’s purpose.

  • Explanation: Fear of death often controls our actions, whether we consciously realize it or not. We may avoid risks, avoid living fully, or become consumed with the desire to preserve our lives at all costs. This principle challenges that fear by offering a view that transcends physical death. For believers, death is not an end but a transition to eternal life with God, and this understanding frees us from living in constant fear.

  • Real-world application: Shift your focus from fear to faith. If you’re facing a life-threatening situation, loss, or uncertainty, remind yourself that God is sovereign over life and death. Trust in His plan for you and remember that He has already secured eternal life for you. This helps you to live without fear, making choices that are aligned with God’s purpose rather than driven by survival instinct.

  • Scriptures:

    • 1 Corinthians 15:54-55: “Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”
    • Hebrews 2:15: “And free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.”

4. Mindset of Letting Go of Excessive Striving

  • Line from this chapter: “Because they strive excessively for worldly life.”

  • Mindset: Cultivate a mindset of contentment and simplicity, letting go of the constant need to strive for worldly success and possessions. This principle encourages us to trust that God will provide what we need and that true fulfillment is found in Him, not in our achievements.

  • Explanation: Striving excessively for wealth, status, or worldly success can lead to burnout, anxiety, and spiritual emptiness. This mindset teaches us that our worth is not defined by what we accumulate or achieve but by our identity in Christ. Contentment, faith, and a focus on spiritual growth should take precedence over worldly pursuits.

  • Real-world application: Reflect on your personal goals and priorities. Are you overcommitted to worldly pursuits at the expense of spiritual growth? Practice contentment by focusing on gratitude for what God has already provided. Simplify your lifestyle to allow more time for reflection, prayer, and service to others.

  • Scriptures:

    • Philippians 4:11-13: “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty… I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
    • Matthew 6:33: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

These principles guide us to live with a focus on eternal life, trusting in God’s protection, letting go of worldly excess, and embracing a peace that overcomes the fear of death. In a world that constantly pulls us toward the transient, these mindsets point us back to the unshakeable security found in Christ, where our true life is secure, free from fear, and filled with peace.

AIM:

1. Aim for Spiritual Life Over Worldly Life

  • Line from this chapter: “Three in ten are followers of life, Three in ten are followers of death, Three in ten live life and quickly step into death, Because they strive excessively for worldly life.”

  • Aim: Focus on nurturing spiritual life rather than the relentless pursuit of worldly success.

  • Explanation: The pursuit of wealth, fame, and power often leads to spiritual emptiness. In this principle, we are reminded to prioritize our relationship with God and spiritual well-being. By aiming for spiritual life, we align ourselves with God’s purpose, experiencing peace and fulfillment that transcends the temporary pleasures of worldly success.

  • Real-world application: Begin your day with spiritual practices such as prayer, scripture reading, or meditation. Set intentional goals that focus on your spiritual growth, such as acts of service, deepening relationships with others, and cultivating kindness and humility. Let go of materialistic desires that distract you from your ultimate purpose in Christ.

  • Scriptures:

    • Matthew 6:33: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
    • Colossians 3:2: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”

2. Aim for Trust in God’s Protection

  • Line from this chapter: “When traveling the roads, they encounter no rhinos or tigers. When going into battle, they are not harmed by weapons.”

  • Aim: Focus on trusting in God’s protection and providence.

  • Explanation: Life is filled with potential dangers and challenges, both physical and emotional. This principle reminds us to trust that when we align our lives with God’s will, He will protect and guide us through the difficulties. By focusing on His sovereignty and goodness, we can face life’s uncertainties with confidence and peace.

  • Real-world application: When faced with challenges—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—pray and trust that God will guide you through. Don’t let fear or worry consume you. Remember that God’s plan for you is greater than any obstacle you may encounter.

  • Scriptures:

    • Psalm 91:11: “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”
    • Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

3. Aim for Freedom from Fear of Death

  • Line from this chapter: “Death no longer has mastery over them.”

  • Aim: Focus on overcoming the fear of death and living fully in Christ.

  • Explanation: Death can often be a source of fear, but for believers, death is not the end—it’s a transition to eternal life. This principle teaches that when we embrace the truth of eternal life in Christ, we no longer need to fear death. Our focus should shift from self-preservation to living fully for God, knowing that He holds our future.

  • Real-world application: If fear of death, failure, or loss is hindering your decisions, remind yourself of God’s promise of eternal life. Live with boldness, knowing that whatever happens in this life is only temporary. Focus on what truly matters: loving God and others, spreading the message of Christ, and living in faith.

  • Scriptures:

    • 1 Corinthians 15:54-55: “Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”
    • Hebrews 2:15: “And free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.”

4. Aim for a Life of Contentment and Simplicity

  • Line from this chapter: “Because they strive excessively for worldly life.”

  • Aim: Focus on simplicity and contentment, letting go of excessive desires for material success.

  • Explanation: In today’s culture, there is a constant push to have more—more money, more success, more possessions. However, this principle encourages us to aim for simplicity, finding contentment in the present moment and in God’s provision. Excessive striving for worldly gain often leads to stress, burnout, and spiritual neglect. By focusing on contentment and simplicity, we find peace and joy in our relationship with God.

  • Real-world application: Reevaluate your priorities. Are you working too much, chasing after more wealth or recognition? Shift your focus to what really matters. Simplify your life—spend more time with loved ones, in prayer, and in service to others. Practice gratitude for what you already have and trust that God will provide what you need.

  • Scriptures:

    • Philippians 4:11-13: “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty… I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
    • 1 Timothy 6:6-8: “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.”

These principles guide us to focus on spiritual growth, trusting in God’s protection, and freeing ourselves from the fear of death and excessive desires for worldly success. In a world full of distractions, these aims help us to live with purpose, peace, and faith in God’s sovereignty.

 

Practice:

1. Selflessness and Letting Go of Worldly Desires

  • Line from this chapter: “Because they strive excessively for worldly life.”

  • Practice: Cultivate detachment from material wealth, status, and personal ambition.

  • Explanation: In today’s world, many are consumed by the desire for wealth, status, and power. These pursuits can lead to stress, burnout, and a lack of spiritual fulfillment. Practicing selflessness and letting go of these worldly desires helps us align more closely with God’s will. It allows us to focus on eternal, spiritual matters rather than the temporary pleasures of this world.

  • Real-world application: Begin by evaluating your own life and determining where you are overly attached to material things. Practice gratitude for what you have, share with others, and avoid excessive striving for worldly success. Choose moments of silence and prayer to refocus your heart on spiritual values rather than material accumulation.

  • Scriptures:

    • Matthew 16:25: “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.”
    • 1 Timothy 6:7-8: “For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.”

2. Non-violence and Peace in Every Situation

  • Line from this chapter: “When traveling the roads they encounter no rhinos or tigers. When going into battle they are not harmed by weapons.”

  • Practice: Strive to practice peace and avoid unnecessary conflict.

  • Explanation: The ability to live in peace despite challenges comes when we let go of the need to retaliate or defend our egos. By cultivating inner peace and practicing non-violence, we demonstrate God’s love to others. This also means offering forgiveness and peace in the face of hostility or aggression, following Jesus’ example of loving our enemies.

  • Real-world application: In your personal life, begin by practicing active listening and understanding when in conflict. Avoid harsh words, and instead, focus on resolving disagreements peacefully. When facing injustice or oppression, seek peaceful solutions, prayerfully asking for wisdom in how to act.

  • Scriptures:

    • Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
    • Romans 12:18: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

3. Surrendering to God’s Will

  • Line from this chapter: “Because death no longer has mastery over them.”

  • Practice: Surrender control of your life to God, trusting in His plan for you.

  • Explanation: When we fully surrender our lives to God, we free ourselves from the fear of death or loss, because we trust that our lives are in His hands. This means not clinging to control, but trusting God’s will for us even when it’s difficult or unclear. Surrendering to God leads to peace, as we no longer have to fear what the world can take from us.

  • Real-world application: Practice daily submission to God through prayer, asking Him to guide your steps and trusting His direction. In moments of decision, instead of relying solely on your understanding, ask for God’s wisdom and be open to His leading. When life gets challenging, choose to trust that God is at work, even in moments of pain or uncertainty.

  • Scriptures:

    • Luke 22:42: “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”
    • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

4. Living with Purpose Beyond the Physical

  • Line from this chapter: “Because they strive excessively for worldly life.”

  • Practice: Focus on the eternal and live with a sense of purpose beyond the physical world.

  • Explanation: In a world that often prioritizes immediate physical needs, practicing with a focus on eternity helps us align with God’s higher purpose for our lives. We are reminded that the physical is temporary, but the spiritual is eternal. Living with purpose means dedicating our time, talents, and resources to God’s kingdom rather than only satisfying temporary desires.

  • Real-world application: Begin to set your priorities based on eternal values. Invest in relationships, community service, and spiritual growth rather than just accumulating possessions or status. Reflect regularly on the legacy you want to leave and how your actions reflect God’s love and purpose in this world.

  • Scriptures:

    • Matthew 6:19-20: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven…”
    • Colossians 3:2: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”

5. Trusting in God’s Protection and Guidance

  • Line from this chapter: “Because death no longer has mastery over them.”

  • Practice: Trust in God’s divine protection and guidance in all situations.

  • Explanation: When we surrender to God, we place our trust in His ability to protect and guide us. This freedom from fear of death or harm comes from knowing that our lives are in His hands. Trusting in God’s protection does not mean avoiding danger, but trusting that He will walk with us through any challenge, knowing that nothing can separate us from His love.

  • Real-world application: In times of uncertainty or danger, lean on God’s promises of protection. Practice prayer and seek His guidance before making decisions, asking Him to lead you in paths of righteousness. Trust Him when facing challenges, and let go of anxiety about the outcome, knowing He has already overcome the world.

  • Scriptures:

    • Psalm 91:1-2: “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
    • John 16:33: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

These practices align us with God’s will, help us to transcend worldly attachments, bring peace into our relationships, and live with a purpose that lasts beyond this life. By embodying these principles, we fulfill our divine purpose and walk in alignment with God’s plan for our lives in today’s world.



RESPOND

Renewal brings the transformation of our spirit with ardor, empowering us to RESPOND to the call of holiness and make disciples of all nations. This encourages meaningful dialogue to embrace shared truths that transcend cultural and religious boundaries.

1. Universal Truth of Selflessness and Surrender

  • Line from this chapter: “Because they strive excessively for worldly life.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings for the principle:

    • Christianity: Jesus teaches to “lose your life for My sake” (Matthew 16:25). The idea is that true fulfillment and purpose come from surrendering our desires for worldly gain and seeking God’s will instead.
    • Islam: In the Qur’an (Surah 3:92), it states: “You will not attain righteousness until you spend from that which you love.” This mirrors the principle of detachment from worldly desires and striving for divine guidance.
    • Buddhism: Buddha’s teaching on the Four Noble Truths stresses that attachment leads to suffering, and freedom is found in letting go of desires and attachments.
    • Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita (2:47) emphasizes detachment from the results of our actions, focusing solely on duty (dharma) and devotion to God (Bhakti).

  • How this Unites Us: This principle of letting go of excessive attachment to worldly desires and striving toward spiritual growth is shared across all religions. Every major religion speaks to the idea that our focus should not be solely on material wealth, fame, or status, but on living a life in harmony with divine will, transcending personal desires. This connects us through a universal truth that calls for humility, selflessness, and the pursuit of spiritual understanding over worldly ambition.

  • Real-world application: In today’s fast-paced, success-driven society, we often find ourselves obsessed with achieving personal goals, accumulating wealth, and attaining status. The principle invites us to step back and reflect on how much energy we invest in these things. Practically, this means making time for prayer, meditation, or moments of silence where we evaluate whether our pursuits are aligned with divine purpose or simply worldly ambitions. It also calls for a practice of giving and charity, knowing that in serving others, we find deeper meaning and purpose.

  • Scriptures:

    • Matthew 16:25: “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.”
    • Quran 3:92: “You will not attain righteousness until you spend from that which you love.”
    • Buddha’s teachings on attachment and suffering: “The root of suffering is attachment.”
    • Bhagavad Gita 2:47: “Your right is to perform your duty only, but never to its fruits. Let not the fruits of action be your motive, nor let your attachment be to inaction.”

2. Universal Truth of Non-violence and Peace

  • Line from this chapter: “When traveling the roads they encounter no rhinos or tigers. When going into battle they are not harmed by weapons.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings for the principle:

    • Christianity: Jesus teaches peace and non-violence, especially in Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
    • Islam: Islam teaches peace and forgiveness. Surah 41:34 states: “Good and evil are not equal. Repel evil with that which is better…”
    • Buddhism: The principle of non-harming (Ahimsa) is central to Buddhist teachings. The Buddha said: “May all beings be happy; may all beings be without disease.”
    • Hinduism: In the Bhagavad Gita (2:31), Krishna teaches that one’s actions should not lead to harm. “There is no greater good than to fight in the righteous war, but violence for personal gain is wrong.”

  • How this Unites Us: The universal call for peace and non-violence is found in every major religion, often as a central ethical tenet. This teaches us that true spiritual power is not found in physical strength, but in the peace that comes through spiritual alignment and the ability to refrain from harm. It unites humanity through a shared desire for peace and reconciliation, showing us that even in conflict, the true path is one of non-violence.

  • Real-world application: In the modern world, where violence can manifest in various forms—from personal disputes to global conflicts—this principle calls for us to adopt peace as a core practice in all areas of life. Whether it’s in how we handle personal relationships, engage in work, or address conflicts within society, we are encouraged to respond with calm, kindness, and the aim of reconciliation rather than retaliation.

  • Scriptures:

    • Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
    • Quran 41:34: “Good and evil are not equal. Repel evil with that which is better.”
    • Buddha’s teachings on Ahimsa: “May all beings be happy; may all beings be without disease.”
    • Bhagavad Gita 2:31: “There is no greater good than to fight in the righteous war, but violence for personal gain is wrong.”

3. Universal Truth of Surrendering to God’s Will

  • Line from this chapter: “Because death no longer has mastery over them.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings for the principle:

    • Christianity: Jesus taught, “Not my will, but Your will be done” (Luke 22:42), illustrating the ultimate surrender to God’s will.
    • Islam: In Islam, submission to Allah is central. The word “Islam” itself comes from “salam,” meaning peace, and is rooted in submission to God’s will. Surah 3:64: “Say: ‘O people of the Scripture, come to a word that is equitable between us and you, that we will worship none but Allah.’”
    • Buddhism: The Buddha’s teachings on the relinquishment of attachment point to surrendering to the flow of life. “Let go of attachment and find peace.”
    • Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes surrendering to God’s will. Krishna says, “Surrender to Me alone and I will free you from all sins.” (Bhagavad Gita 18:66)

  • How this Unites Us: Every major religion advocates surrendering to a higher divine will, as this is seen as the path to true freedom and inner peace. Whether it’s in Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, or Hinduism, surrender is seen as a means to transcend ego and align with a higher purpose. This unites us in the shared truth that by yielding our own will, we can find divine peace and eternal truth.

  • Real-world application: In a world filled with uncertainty and struggles for control, this principle urges us to let go of excessive striving and control, trusting that God’s plan is greater than our own. In practical terms, this can be seen in cultivating a practice of prayer, meditation, or surrender in daily life, where we align ourselves with God’s purpose over our own plans.

  • Scriptures:

    • Luke 22:42: “Not my will, but Your will be done.”
    • Quran 3:64: “Say: ‘O people of the Scripture, come to a word that is equitable between us and you, that we will worship none but Allah.’”
    • Buddha’s teaching on attachment: “Let go of attachment and find peace.”
    • Bhagavad Gita 18:66: “Surrender to Me alone and I will free you from all sins.”

These principles from the Christian version of the Tao Te Ching resonate deeply with universal spiritual truths across all major religions. They call us to live selflessly, in peace, and to surrender to a higher divine will. Through these shared values, humanity can find unity and purpose, no matter their faith.

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