The “Gate” of the Rich Man and the “Chasm” of Hell
누가복음 16:14-16:31
What lesson is God teaching me? Vv. 14, 15- The Pharisees, who heard the story of how the owner praised the servant for reducing the amount of debt, loved money so they laughed at the attitude of the owner. They listened to the law saying that wealth is a result of blessing and disregarded the law telling them to use wealth to bless the poor. They were prideful thinking that they had nothing to repent of (15:7) and thought they were right. But God who knows all truth hates the respect and wealth that they enjoyed. You cannot blindly believe that material success and societal reputation are blessings from God and build those things up. Check to see if it is luxuries and success that God disgusts in. Ask yourself who is the true ruler in your heart, God or money.
Vv. 19, 24-26- The rich man lives in luxury for himself and enjoys the finer things in life but does not turn his eye to the beggar at the gate. But because he did not make a relationship with Lazarus, when he died he could not even get a drink of water and was in pain and anguish. The front gate that he never passed through while he was alive became a chasm in hell that he could not cross over. Are you creating a big chasm that you cannot cross because you are emptying the dishes of others so that you are full and are you locking up the gate securely?
Vv. 27-31- A second chance will not be given to those who disregard the commands of Moses and the warning of the prophets who tells them to take care of the poor and not turn their wealth into idols. The rich man wanted to send Lazarus to warn his five brothers but the request is rejected because it will make no difference. Even though the Word may seem like bitter medicine to us now, we must know that when we hear the Word, the opportunity is there for us to turn back. When the Word is met with scorn then there is no hope.
Help me to clear my gate that is creating a chasm and look beyond the gate.
