Read Luke 16:19-31
Are You The Rich Man Or Are You Lazarus?
Jesus tells a story to make a valuable point. He starts:
There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury everyday. So we know the man was a very prestigious person in the community.
There was also a beggar named Lazarus who was covered with sores and longed to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and licked his wounds.
Then one day, both men died. Lazarus was immediately taken to Abraham’s side in comfort, while the rich man went to Hades, a place of torment and fire.
The rich man sees Abraham and Lazarus together and pleads for help from them.
1. He asked for pity, the very thing he never showed Lazarus when he begged for food.
2. He asked for water.
3. He asked Abraham to send Lazarus to his family and warm them so that they don’t also go to the place of torment. Abraham responded, they have God’s word to turn to. The rich man, knowing they’d ignore God’s word, begged that he send Lazarus to tell them because his family would listen and repent of their sin if someone from the dead came and told them. Abraham responded, if they do not listen to God’s word, they won’t even listen to someone who rises from the dead.
There are many things to derive from this:
1. Living for the things of this world is futile.
2. We need a heart of compassion.
3. It starts with a relationship with Jesus.
4. When we die, there are two options heaven or hell.
5. Those who reject God’s word will be separated by God in hell.
6. The word of God is life for our souls.
7. It’s interesting how Abraham said, “Even if someone rises from the dead, they won’t listen.” Jesus rose from the dead and people still ignore him.
It’s your choice. Which will it be? Christ or hell? God’s love? God’s life? Choose Jesus!
