The Rich Man and Lazarus

Home work from last week: Read: Luke 16:19-31

Icebreaker: Describe in detail the one purchase you would make if money was not an issue ? For example, dream home, dream car, dream vacation ect.

We live in a physical world, we walk, talk, and see through a physical body because of this it is so easy to get caught up in what we physically see such as the issues, and problems of this world. There is even a tendency to prioritize future plans, and dreams on this earth. It is understandable, we all want to make the best out of this life. What is most important and even more satisfying is when we reserve our best for the life to come! When we prioritize the kingdom of God and place our treasure there we can be sure to reap eternal benefits !

Read Luke 16:19-31

The Rich Man and Lazarus - (Luke 16:19-21)

- What are the differences between these two men (v.19-20) - Do you think Lazarus was out of line, or asking too much of the rich man? (v.21) - What do you think the attitude is of the rich man ? - Have you ever had anyone come to you for help and thought, why would I help you? Explain. - As christians what should our attitude be when it comes to the poor?

It is important to note that the beggars in the time of Jesus were not like the beggars that we see today. Most people that begged in the Bible were forced into that way of life due to a severe physical handicap also there were very limited to no "social programs" this made beggars more dependent on people that had an excess of resources. Knowing this, the rich man's attitude towards helping Lazarus is even more pitiful. Sometimes people need help, although we do not want to become an enabler if there is a way we can help and we are able to help, we should put forth our best efforts.

Read Luke 16:22-26

2 Different Destinations (Luke 16:22-26)

- As you look at the eternal rewards of these different men and how they lived on earth , does this bring you to any conclusions when it comes to earthly gain, work, fame, fortune ect ? - Is there a balance between earthly gain and eternal rewards ? Where is the priority placed? - Read v.25 As christians should we expect earthly comfort ? What should we expect?

We have two different people that had prioritized their comfort in two different places. As we look around us today in the midst of a pandemic, many people are full of fear as they view the loss of their 401k, jobs, cars, and dealing with the stress of an unknown future. People dealing with different feelings, because they have placed their trust in the things of this world that they hold so tight. God never promised us complete comfort on this earth.What he has promised is, if we endure until the end even when it is uncomfortable we will receive an eternal comfort that will far surpass anything we could ever experience in this world. The Rich Man's Prayer (Luke 16:27-31) - How was the rich man's perspective changed? - What was the prayer of the rich man ? (v.27) Was the prayer effective ? - How can this story relate to our unsaved loved ones ? - Why is this story so important for us as Christians to understand? Relating to Priorities? Time? Prayer? Comfort?

The rich man's perspective changed when he saw where he was and when he saw where Lazarus was. Unfortunately, it was already too late for the rich man. In a desperate plea he asks for Abraham to send his brothers a preacher. As christians this story is so important because in reminds us where to place our priorities, that time is running out to save those that are lost, that now is the time to pray, and worldly comfort doesn't mean God's blessing.

In Conclusion Looking back at the rich man and Lazarus yes, their lives on earth were much different, but what about their eternity? There is a song that says, "To be like Jesus, to be like Jesus, on earth I long to be like him," but when you sing that song have you ever stopped to think, what if that brings us the life of Lazarus? Are we prepared to let go of earthly treasures in order to truly follow after him?

A Fun Thought There are many in Christian circles that debate the parable of "The Rich Man and Lazarus" and whether or not this is a parable or if Jesus is telling of an actual historic account. What do you think? Why ?

Prayer Pointer- Take some time tonight to pray for one another's lost loved ones Homework for Next Week: - Read: The Best Seat at the Table - Luke 14:7-11 and The Pharisee and the Publican - Luke 18:9-14