service [rendered] to God does indeed profit God nothing…
““service [rendered] to God does indeed profit God nothing, nor has God need of human obedience; but He grants to those who follow and serve Him life and incorruption and eternal glory, bestowing benefit upon those who serve [Him], because they do serve Him, and on His followers, because they do follow Him; but does not receive any benefit from them: for He is rich, perfect, and in need of nothing. But for this reason does God demand service from men, in order that, since He is good and merciful, He may benefit those who continue in His service. For, as much as God is in want of nothing, so much does man stand in need of fellowship with God. For this is the glory of man, to continue and remain permanently in God’s service. Wherefore also did the Lord say to His disciples, “Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you;” indicating that they did not glorify Him when they followed Him; but that, in following the Son of God, they were glorified by Him. And””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage asserts that God does not need human service, but serves those who serve Him, granting them eternal benefits; human service is motivated by God's goodness and humanity's need for divine fellowship.
In simple terms: God is self‑sufficient; humans benefit from serving Him.
Serve God to receive spiritual blessings.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal devotion
- church teaching
- spiritual growth
- ethical living
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does serving God shape personal identity?
- What does “glory of man” mean in this context?
Human service cannot change God's nature; it is symbolic.