THE STORY OF JESUS: Luke 16:19-31
“They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.” (Luke 19:29)
This parable is a reminder that we need to read the bible with care.
I have heard people refer to this parable as proof of how the afterlife works.
The wicked will experience the agony of fire, and will see the saints in glory.
They will also try to communicate with the living, to warn them.
This is a parable, and Jesus is using the Greek story of Hades.
Hades is the Greek god of the underworld – do we take that literally?
Jesus told stories to make a point, and His point here is in v.29.
If you listen to Moses and the Prophets, you will not be like this rich man.
You will not ignore or oppress the poor, you will not be selfish and uncaring.
I believe in final judgment, I just don’t look to this parable for details.
As Jesus followers, we look beyond the words to the Word (message) from God.
Repent of sin and selfishness, seek mercy and show mercy – THIS is God’s way!
How we live in this life matters, even the Greeks understood that.
Stop trying to explain the afterlife; start living the God-life in this life!
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, sometimes we get so bogged down in interpreting and debating the details that we miss the point. Forgive us, and help us move beyond talking about new life, and to start living it with You!
The name Lazarus means God is my help.
Even in all his suffering, Lazarus knew where his help comes from.
And the rich man?
He relied upon himself and his own riches.
Lazarus’ treasure was the Lord.
The rich man’s treasure was his wealth.
The beggar became rich and the wealthy man became the beggar.
My only treasure is the Lord and all I have is His. May the blessings I have received also be a blessing unto others. I need to share the treasure I have with all those around me.
Living for Jesus a life that is true,
Striving to please Him in all that I do;
Yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free,
This is the pathway of blessing for me.
O Jesus, Lord and Savior,
I give myself to Thee,
For Thou, in Thy [redemption],*
Didst give Thyself for me;
I own no other Master,
My heart shall be Thy throne,
My life I give, henceforth to live,
O Christ, for Thee alone.