(The Rich Man and Lazarus) I heard a preacher point out that this is more of an illustration story than a parable because it uses a proper name.
One of many lessons we can gain from this story is that a person continues after death. Whether in the Paradise portion of Hades or the Torment side, recognition, memory, concern, and awareness continue. The rich man wanted to warn his family and was told, “They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.” God’s Word was their opportunity then. Today we have Jesus and the completed God-breathed words of Scripture.
“Love does not end at death.”
God’s Word is the pathway by which people come to know their Creator and trust in Jesus—the only way to the Father (John 14:6).
Matthew 22:37 commands us to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, and mind. This story shows that the person (the conscious soul/spirit) continues with memory, recognition, and concern after the body returns to dust.
This account is found in Luke 16:19-31. Other clear points include recognition, remembrance, concern for others, pain, the fixed chasm, and the fact that there is no second chance. Our time is now.
See: Luke 16:19-31; Luke 23:43; 2 Corinthians 5:8; Hebrews 9:27; John 14:6; Matthew 22:37; 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 (especially 13:8).
God First!
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