Introduction:
Personal sacrifice for the common good is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of selflessness, love, and service to others. This concept is deeply rooted in the teachings of both the Old and New Testaments, where individuals are called to put aside personal interests for the benefit of others, reflecting the character and love of God.

Old Testament Foundations:
The Old Testament provides numerous examples of personal sacrifice for the common good. One of the earliest instances is found in the account of Abraham, who was willing to sacrifice his son Isaac in obedience to God (Genesis 22:1-19). Although God ultimately provided a ram as a substitute, Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his beloved son demonstrated his faith and commitment to God's will.

Another significant example is found in the life of Moses. He repeatedly interceded for the Israelites, even offering to have his own name blotted out of God's book if it would spare the people from destruction (Exodus 32:32). Moses' leadership was marked by a willingness to endure personal hardship for the sake of the nation.

The account of Ruth also highlights personal sacrifice. Ruth, a Moabite widow, chose to leave her homeland and accompany her mother-in-law Naomi back to Israel, saying, "Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay" (Ruth 1:16). Her selfless decision ultimately led to her becoming an ancestor of King David and, by extension, Jesus Christ.

New Testament Teachings:
The New Testament further develops the theme of personal sacrifice, with Jesus Christ serving as the ultimate example. Jesus' entire ministry was characterized by selflessness and service, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross for the salvation of humanity. In John 15:13, Jesus states, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends" . His life and teachings consistently emphasized the importance of putting others before oneself.

The Apostle Paul also speaks extensively about personal sacrifice. In Romans 12:1, he urges believers to "offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God" . Paul himself exemplified this principle, enduring persecution, imprisonment, and hardship for the sake of spreading the Gospel and building up the early church (2 Corinthians 11:23-28).

Practical Applications:
The call to personal sacrifice for the common good is not limited to biblical figures but extends to all believers. Christians are encouraged to follow the example of Christ and the apostles by serving others selflessly. This can manifest in various ways, such as volunteering time and resources, forgiving others, and prioritizing the needs of the community over personal gain.

In Philippians 2:3-4, Paul instructs, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others" . This mindset fosters a spirit of unity and love within the body of Christ and serves as a powerful witness to the world.

Conclusion:
While the Bible does not shy away from the challenges and costs associated with personal sacrifice, it consistently affirms the eternal value and divine approval of such acts. Believers are called to emulate the sacrificial love of Christ, trusting that their efforts contribute to the greater good and the advancement of God's kingdom.