Previously all the great sages rendered service unto the Personality of Godhead due to His existence above the three modes of material nature. They worshiped Him to become free from material conditions and thus derive the ultimate benefit. Whoever follows such great authorities is also eligible for liberation from the material world.
Srimad Bhagavata Purana
श्रीमद्भागवतमहापुराणम्
मूल श्लोकः
भेजिरे मुनयोऽथाग्रे भगवन्तमधोक्षजम् । सत्त्वं विशुद्धं क्षेमाय कल्पन्ते येऽनु तानिह
bhejire munayo'thāgre bhagavantamadhokṣajam | sattvaṃ viśuddhaṃ kṣemāya kalpante ye'nu tāniha
SB 1.2.25