Wealth can make one blind
Jesus sets out for Jerusalem, where he would die. He talks with his disciples about how to get into heaven and tells the parable of the rich man and the poor Lazarus.
The rich man was dressed in purple. Purple dye was very expensive. Therefore, purple clothing was a sign of wealth. Lazarus, on the other hand, was a beggar who depended on the grace of the wealthy.
In addition, he was sick. The dogs licked his wounds. By the standards of that time, he was worth nothing and unsuitable for heaven. According to Luke 16:19-31
1. Reich oder Arm
Many people are still discussing this today. Collections are made in television shows. Others go to poor countries and get a picture of their situation on site.
- Illness (Lazarus)
- Political or religious oppression.
- Short-time work.
- Financial ruin!
- Alcohol or drug addiction.
- Poverty due to laziness?
Proverbs 21:25-26 (ESV)
Must one be poor to enter heaven? When is wealth harmful? When one is not rich in God!
So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.”
Luke 12:21 (ESV)
2. The Role Swap
By God's standards, however, Lazarus was valuable. He was allowed to exchange his earthly misery for a pleasant existence with Abraham in heaven.
The rich man, on the other hand, exchanged his pleasant life on earth for the misery of eternity in hell. According to Luke 16:22-23
Scofield explains: The Greek and Hebrew words for hell have the same meaning: (hades/sheol). Luke 16:23 shows that the lost are conscious in hades (hell).
They possess all abilities, memory, feelings, etc., as they suffer in torment. (Lucado book, last section, p.116), they are in the state of eternal death. (i.e., eternal separation from God).
3. The large offer
It is not important whether one is rich or poor, but whether one accepts the offer that is stated in John 3:16. If you are rich, support the poor so that they can lead a better life.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. John 3:16+17 (ESV)
Unlike hell, heaven is a place of glory! This is also 'Jesus' desire' according to the high priestly prayer:
Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. John 17:24 (ESV).
I encourage everyone who likes to read to read John, chapter 17, in prayer, all the way through!
4. Closing words
The greatest thing in Christianity is that we have a Lord who lives. And loves us. We are allowed to get to know Him personally.
In Revelation 22:17, the invitation 'come' appears three times and once for free! Jesus also calls you! He does not want anyone to be lost, but to have eternal life.
The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price. Revelation 22:17 (ESV)
Author: Egon Waechter
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