A few weeks ago I was asked about where we go when we die. For the Christian death is only a door we pass through to be with our Heavenly Father, while the event for the unsaved is quite the opposite. Following is a story about death prior to Christ’s Crucifixion. Animal sacrifice was a symbol of sacrifice, but only Jesus shed blood would be able to save man from sin.
In Luke 16 chapter verses 19-31 Jesus tells about an event in two men’s lives that have very different outcomes. There was a rich man dressed in purple and linen that lived a very luxurious lifestyle. Though he is not mentioned by name the beggar is. Lazarus lay by his gate covered in sores and longed for the crumbs that fell to the ground off the rich man’s table. Lazarus was quite ill as the dogs would come and lick his wounds. Jesus spoke in parables that related to people and the lives they lived. This story, however, gives a name to the beggar making it more likely a true historical event.
Eventually both men died. Lazarus was carried by angels to Abraham’s side. This next statement really hit home. The rich man died and was buried. No fanfare, just buried and forgotten. To then open your eyes and be in Hell is beyond anything we could depict. He looked far away and saw Abraham with Lazarus by his side, and called out for mercy, but it was too late.
He asked if Lazarus could merely dip his finger in water and let a drop fall to his tongue for some relief. Abraham reminded him of all the good things he enjoyed during his lifetime while Lazarus had nothing. There was also a great gulf between them that would prevent them from comforting each other. No it is not wrong to have nice things, but in this time period riches were thought to be a reward, while being destitute was a sign of punishment for sin. You can actually hear this belief taught today by Christian motivational speakers and ministers, though it is still not true today.
The rich man now understands that as soon as he took his last breath it was past time for salvation. He then asked that Abraham send Lazarus to warn his five brothers so they would not come to this place of torment. Abraham then tells him that Moses and the prophets have already laid out the only escape from an eternal hell and that if they won’t believe them they won’t believe someone who has returned from the dead.
After Jesus died on the cross he had a busy three days. He went to the grave and preached to those that believed and took them to heaven. Salvation was complete by his death and shedding of blood. They would now live eternally with God as will we.
I have heard cruel comments made toward God saying he is a bully and a hateful being. It’s true there are some places in scripture that are uncomfortable to read.
Sometimes at Sunday lunch we mention how the preacher really stepped on some toes that morning with his sermon. It is my prayer that we, as Christians, are moved to spread the Good News of our Savior and be an example of Jesus working in and through our lives. It’s simple and profound all at the same time. We may be the only Jesus someone sees before it’s too late.
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