The Greek word kerdaínō, represented by G2770, means to gain or win, either literally or figuratively. It appears 19 times in 15 unique verses, highlighting its application in both material and spiritual contexts. The term can describe commercial profit as well as the profound act of winning a person to Christ or back to a right relationship.
In scripture, G2770 is used to illustrate different kinds of gain. In a literal sense, it refers to acquiring wealth, as when merchants plan to "buy and sell, and get gain" James 4:13 or when the faithful servants in the parable gained more talents with what was entrusted to them (Matthew 25:20, Matthew 25:22). More significantly, the term is used figuratively. It describes the goal of reconciliation, where confronting a sinning brother in love results in having "gained thy brother" Matthew 18:15. It also defines the purpose of evangelism, as Paul made himself a servant to all so that he "might gain the more" 1 Corinthians 9:19. The ultimate spiritual application is found in Paul's declaration that he counts all worldly things as loss "that I may win Christ" Philippians 3:8.
Several related words clarify the concept of what is truly gained or lost:
- G2210 zēmióō (to injure, i.e. (reflexively or passively) to experience detriment): This word is the direct opposite of gaining. It is used to create a stark contrast, asking what a man is profited if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul (Matthew 16:26, Mark 8:36). Paul uses it to state he has suffered the loss of all things to win Christ Philippians 3:8.
- G5623 ōpheléō (to be useful, i.e. to benefit): This term questions the value of worldly acquisition, asking what a man is profited if he should gain the whole world but lose himself (Matthew 16:26, Luke 9:25). It frames the discussion around ultimate benefit versus temporal gain.
- G80 adelphós (a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote): The value of relationships is highlighted when G2770 is used in the context of reconciliation. The successful outcome of a private rebuke is to have "gained thy brother" Matthew 18:15.
- G1710 emporeúomai (to travel in (a country as a pedlar), i.e. (by implication) to trade): This term describes a specific action leading to financial gain. It is used alongside G2770 to describe those who plan to buy and sell, and get gain James 4:13.
The theological weight of G2770 is centered on the re-evaluation of what constitutes true profit.
- The Supreme Value of Christ: The most profound use of the word is to position Christ as the ultimate prize. Paul willingly experienced the loss of everything else in order that he "may win Christ" Philippians 3:8, establishing Him as infinitely more valuable than any earthly possession or status.
- The Worth of the Soul: The word is used in a critical question that contrasts material and spiritual realities: what value is there to gain the entire world if it means losing one's own soul? (Matthew 16:26, Mark 8:36). This highlights the eternal consequences of prioritizing worldly gain.
- The Goal of Reconciliation: The act of "gaining" a brother who has trespassed re-frames interpersonal conflict Matthew 18:15. The goal is not to win an argument but to win the person, restoring the relationship within the community of faith.
- The Mission of Evangelism: Paul's apostolic strategy was to become "all things to all men" that he might "gain" them for the gospel 1 Corinthians 9:20-22. This casts evangelism not as conquest, but as winning people over to salvation.
In summary, G2770 moves from the simple idea of material acquisition to a profound spiritual principle. While it can denote the financial profit from trading James 4:13 or investing Matthew 25:17, its greater significance lies in the figurative realm. It defines the success of reconciliation as gaining a brother Matthew 18:15, the purpose of ministry as winning souls 1 Corinthians 9:19, and the very essence of faith as winning Christ above all else Philippians 3:8. Thus, kerdaínō forces a re-evaluation of what is truly profitable in light of eternity.
TRV