We’re beginning a short series on the hard questions unbelievers ask. It is vital to realize that, as 2 Corinthians 4:4 says: The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel…
A dear couple I met at pickleball a few years back has come into a thriving relationship with Christ, and their lives bear fruit. The husband opted out of a much better-paying job to become a school bus driver to share the gospel with children. When the school questioned him, he said, “You can take God out of your school, but not out of my bus.” He’s still driving the bus and still sharing.
The wife has been going above and beyond to love her family, which recently opened the door for her to email this sermon, which she heard at her church last week, to her sister. God removed the blindfold of the enemy, the gospel penny has seemed to have dropped, and her sister is overwhelmed with joy.
While I don’t have a transcript of Stephen Hess’s sermon, I will divide it into four “8-minute bites.”
On a personal note, “Happy Mother’s Day” to all mothers, spiritual or actual. I’d love prayers for a woman I met at pickleball. She is taking me out to dinner today (Mother’s Day), but has resisted my sharing the gospel. Please pray that God removes her blinders and that the Lord gives me wisdom and favor. May the Lord bless you this day.
Sunday:
1. How have you sensed God’s goodness this last week?
Monday: Texts
I am glad I play pickleball because it allows me to be “in the world.” I hear so many people repeating the lies of the enemy. For example, I overheard Michael tell another atheist: “I cannot believe in any religion that says unless you obey my rules, you will go to hell.” True, that is the way of religion, but it is not the way of the gospel, which the enemy has veiled to Michael.
2. Read John 3:16-18 and explain:
A. Why didn’t God send Jesus into the world, and why did He?
B. What is the only thing that can keep you from going to heaven?
C. What would you have said to Michael (see above) if you were his friend?
3. Read Luke 16:19-31
A. What do you learn about the rich man and Lazarus in verses 19-21?
B. What is the first request the rich man makes of Abraham and why is his reply in verses 22-26?
C. What is the second request he makes of Abraham, and what is Abraham’s reply in verses 27-29?
D. What is the rich man’s rebuttal, and what is Abraham’s reply?
Tuesday: Part I of Sermon
4. Listen up to 8.39 where he closes with “God must also be a God of judgment.”
A. What stands out and why?
B. What is man’s default destination and why?
C. What kind of God does Western culture want? Is this true of all cultures? Why or why not?
D. Why must God be a God of love and judgment?
Wednesday: Part II of Sermon
5. Listen from 8:40 to 17 when he begins “And Abraham tells this rich man…”
A. What stands out to you and why?
B. Hess quotes Keller, who says God must disrupt our thinking at times. What does he mean?
C. What does Hess bring out about the life of the rich man? About his purple clothing? About his focus? About his eternal fate?
D. What are the two eternal destinations, and what is the key difference?
E. In the rich man’s earthly life, what kind of life did he choose?
F. He quoted Lewis: two kinds of people — one says my will be done, and the other thy will be done. What did Lewis mean?
G. Does the rich man express repentance? What does this teach us about why hell may be eternal?
I, Dee, say “may be” as I do see some evidence in scripture that after a time in hell, annihilation is a possibility for some. But I may be wrong. It is best to prepare for the worst possibility of eternal torment.
Thursday: Part III of Sermon
6. Listen from 17 up to 23:33 when he says “As we come to the end of this story I want to offer three final reflections.”
A. What stands out to you and why?
B. Alcorn says the best of life for unbelievers is earth, and for believers, the worst of life is earth. Thoughts?
C. What parable does Hess refer to for the idea that there may be degrees of punishment in hell? (Luke 12) Thoughts?
D. Holcomb says men will be judged according to the light and privileges they had on earth. Thoughts?
E. This is so sobering to me, for I have had a privileged life of being raised in America, in a loving home, with a healthy body, mind, and material blessings. I’ve also had years of exceptional Bible teaching. I also know teachers will be judged more strictly. I am asking God how I can best live these final years and for forgiveness for not doing better in the past. How does this impact you?
Friday: Part IV of Sermon
7. Listen to the end.
A. What stands out and why?
B. What is the bad news and how should this impact us?
C. What is the good news and how should this impact us?
D. How is the cross a demonstration of both love and justice?
E. This was huge for me. How did Hess explain the words in the Apostles’ Creed, “He descended into hell.” Was this a new thought for you as it was for me? (I don’t know if the writers of the Apostles’ Creed meant this — I’ve heard many other explanations, but this was the most satisfying.)
F. What is the one thing that can keep a person out of heaven if it isn’t sin?
G. How might this sermon help you explain the gospel clearly in two sentences?
H. Give us one name of someone you love for whom the gospel is veiled so we can pray for them and for you to have favor and wisdom.
Saturday:
8. What is your takeaway and why?
108 comments
Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms on the blog! I want to share a quick video from the President of (formally) Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) now called “MomCo.”
This Teaching Clip made me think of you. Watch Matthew 1:21 by The MomCo:
https://www.bible.com/en/videos/49384?orientation=PORTRAIT&utm_source=YVAPP&utm_medium=SHARE&utm_content=STORY_CLIP
I hope you all have a lovely, delightful day!
Great short Mother’s Day message. Thanks, Laura.
Thanks for sharing Laura😊… good and interesting.
Happy Mothers Day!
Thanks, Laura. I like that. The same savior Mary carried is the savior carrying you. Happy Mother’s Day, all!
Thank you for the lovely message, Laura. I am so grateful that our Savior carries us.
1. How have you sensed God’s goodness this last week?
I am watching The Chosen with my DIL and I watched season 2 episode 8 this week. I have seen them all up to season 5, but she is interested so I am rewatching.
Jesus is getting ready for the Sermon on the Mount. He has Matthew scribing for Him and there is a point where He asks Matthew what he likes and dislikes. Matthew says he thinks there is a lot of negative parts and suggests that Jesus rearrange some of the text to ”invite” people to join in. We know this is not in the Bible, but it is a creative thought process. Jesus continues to work and finally wakes Matthew saying that He is ready to write the “introduction.” He tells Matthew it is a “map” to know where to locate Him. Then He begins to recite the Beatitudes. “ Blessed are the poor…” I cried. It was so beautiful. As He mentioned each one, the video panned to a disciple. Thank You Lord. You are so good.
Sunday:
1. How have you sensed God’s goodness this last week? First of all prayers for your dinner tonight, Dee. Praying for your friend’s heart to be soft and for you to know just what to say to win her heart. I was very blessed by the Tim Keller sermon Bing shared on FB. Hannah’s prayer and her whole story really show us God’s love for us.
Sorry, I typed this yesterday and never posted. Dee, I hope you had a lovely dinner.
It means so much that you prayed! Baby steps with her– I listened mostly as she has been badly hurt by a guy. I did give her the book about Karla Faye Tucker as she is flying to see a daughter today and I thought she might read. I pray she does. She’s a Catholic but definitely doesn’t understand true Christianity.
I am sorry I did not open this yesterday to see your prayer request, Dee. I pray that your dinner went well and that her heart was open to the gospel.
Thank you, Patti — I figure the Lord doesn’t have a time line so your prayers still matter. 🙂
2. Read John 3:16-18 and explain:
A. Why didn’t God send Jesus into the world, and why did He?
He wasn’t sent to judge the rather to save the world.
B. What is the only thing that can keep you from going to heaven?
Disbelief.
C. What would you have said to Michael (see above) if you were his friend?
Christianity is the only religion where the leader gave His life so His followers would have life. All you have to do is believe.
2. Read John 3:16-18 and explain:
A. Why didn’t God send Jesus into the world, and why did He? God did not send Jesus to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
B. What is the only thing that can keep you from going to heaven? Whoever does not believe is condemned because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.
C. What would you have said to Michael (see above) if you were his friend? Religion is not about rules, but relationship. We obey because we love him.
3. Read Luke 16:19-31
A. What do you learn about the rich man and Lazarus in verses 19-21? The rich man is clothed and fed extravagantly. Lazarus was laid at his gate, apparently immobile, and covered in sores the dogs came to lick, while he wait for scraps that had fallen from the rich man’s table.
B. What is the first request the rich man makes of Abraham and why is his reply in verses 22-26? He wants Lazarus to give him a drop of water to cool his tongue. The rich man is told that he had wealth and comfort while living, while Lazarus was suffering, but now he is comforted while the rich man is in anguish.
C. What is the second request he makes of Abraham, and what is Abraham’s reply in verses 27-29? The second request is that Lazarus is sent to warn his brothers and Abraham reply’s with they have Moses and the prophets.
D. What is the rich man’s rebuttal, and what is Abraham’s reply? The rich man thinks if his family sees a dead man’s warning they will change and believe, but Abraham says, no. They will not believe a dead man’s warning if they do not believe Moses and the prophets.
3. Read Luke 16:19-31
Question. Why is the rich man not armed here, but Lazarus is named?
A. What do you learn about the rich man and Lazarus in verses 19-21?
He is rich and clothed well, and Lazarus is poor and sickly. Dogs lick his wounds.
B. What is the first request the rich man makes of Abraham and why is his reply in verses 22-26?
He asks for a drink. Abraham says no because he had everything in life and Lazarus had nothing. Now Lazarus is comforted and he is not.
C. What is the second request he makes of Abraham, and what is Abraham’s reply in verses 27-29?
He wants Lazarus to go to his family to tell them to behave in life. Abraham also says no because he says they can read for themselves and understand.
D. What is the rich man’s rebuttal, and what is Abraham’s reply?
He says they would believe if someone from the dead visited them. Abraham says they wouldn’t believe even then because they never listened to Moses and the prophets.
1. How are you sensed God’s goodness this last week? I had a heart wrenching week, when my 3 year old dog, Piper started having cluster seizures…many in a 18 hours. (She had been doing so well for two months.) I had to take to her to the ER at the Veterinary Specialist hospital. Thankfully, the great doctors got her stabilized with 24 hours in the ICU. I praise God for the excellent doctors and staff, who took such great care of her and I was able to bring her home Saturday afternoon. Earlier that same week had her seen by one of the Neurology specialists at the same hospital, who is one of the kindest, most compassionate and most knowledgeable Neurology vets I have met. 🙏
Oh Patti, so sorry that Piper and you had to go through, this but praise God she got stabilized. I’m also glad you found a good neurologist for her and that a treatment plan was found.
Oh Sharon — so hard — glad for good vets and a good God!
I’m sorry Patti. That’s so hard and those ER VETS are terribly expensive! Praying for quick recovery and resolution for the seizures.
Thank you all for your kinds words and prayers.
2. Read John 3:16-18 and explain:
A. Why didn’t God send Jesus into the world, and why did He? God did not send His Son into the world to judge the world. God sent His Son to save the world.
B. What is the only thing that can keep you from going to heaven? He who does not believe in Jesus, the Son of God, has already been judged. He who believes in Him, will not be judged. I like a footnote in my Bible that says: disbelief and doubts are a continuing settled attitude, not a momentary doubting .
C. What would you have said to Michael (see above) if you were his friend? GOD IS LOVE, He is not setting up rules to harm us. These rules are guidelines to having a better life, where you are able to handle the troubles of this world, by casting your cares upon Him; going to Him in prayer when you are filled with sorrow or confusion; it is not a guarantee for a perfect life, but a life that will be satisfying and fill your heart with joy. It is a life where your interest is in doing what is pleasing to Him, not things to make you happy. That “happiness” is short lived. It is about putting your thoughts towards others, not just focusing on yourself. It is being “self-less”. I think it is a hard concept, if one has not tried it.
3. Read Luke 16:19-31
A. What do you learn about the rich man and Lazarus in verses 19-21? He dressed in costly, fine clothes and lived a life of luxury. He had no worldly needs and probably dined with servants and fine food, never giving a thought to those less fortunate. He does not sound like a man of compassion.
B. What is the first request the rich man makes of Abraham and why is his reply in verses 22-26? The rich man asks Abraham for mercy and to send Lazarus to him to dip in finger in water to cool his tongue, for he is in agony. Abraham tells the rich man that he received his good things during his life, while Lazarus had bad things. Now Lazarus, who was a righteous man, is being comforted, while the rich man is in agony. While Lazarus lived a good life and is spending his eternity in the presence of God, the rich man is in Hades being tormented, while awaiting final judgment.There is a huge chasm between the Heavenly realm and Hades and you cannot travel between them.
C. What is the second request he makes of Abraham, and what is Abraham’s reply in verses 27-29? The rich man begs Abraham to sent Lazarus to his father’s home to warn them, so they will not end up in the place of torment. Abraham tells him that his family has Moses and the Prophets to listen to, (if they desire to listen to them).
D. What is the rich man’s rebuttal, and what is Abraham’s reply? The rich man pleads for Abraham to send someone from the dead so that they will believe. Abraham tells them that if they are not willing to listen to Moses or the prophets, they will not be persuaded even by someone raised from the dead.
Sunday:
1. How have you sensed God’s goodness this last week?
I sensed His goodness through our study last week and all the great things the ladies shared here. I want to share a song that resonated with me as well that went along with the study.
More of You by Colton Dixon.
https://youtu.be/sqbK1Z1oIK0?si=KsQwsJ4Us5Nxo_Zh
Thank you for this link, Sharon. I love this song and especially the words! I needed this right now. More of HIM and less of me. So good!
Sunday:
1. How have you sensed God’s goodness this last week? – The love of God continues on. This past week has been one I was dreading. With Mother’s Day yesterday, I knew it would be rough, with the recent passing of my Mom. But on Friday, I got a beautiful bouquet for flowers from a sweet couple from our Life Group. The timing of that, the message on the card and the beautiful flowers really helped lift my spirit. And yesterday, I almost had Joe turn around instead of going to church I couldn’t stop crying when I would see things posted or received a text. We ended up going to church and the hugs and love I received from those who knew, was so touching and helpful. They let me cry when I needed to cry. I love our Tennessee ‘family’.
Aww. I love the body of Christ
Yes, I too love hearing about the family of God thinking of you.
Oh, Julie, I love how you were loved and embraced by your Tennessee family. I know it is so hard.
Oh Julie, that must have been hard. I’m thankful your “family” held you close and loved on you. We all need that!
Monday: Texts
I am glad I play pickleball because it allows me to be “in the world.” I hear so many people repeating the lies of the enemy. For example, I overheard Michael tell another atheist: “I cannot believe in any religion that says unless you obey my rules, you will go to hell.” True, that is the way of religion, but it is not the way of the gospel, which the enemy has veiled to Michael.
2. Read John 3:16-18 and explain:
A. Why didn’t God send Jesus into the world, and why did He? – God didn’t send Jesus into the world for the world to get a free ride by his death. He sent Jesus into the world so that those who believe in who Jesus is would not perish and we would be saved through him and we will have eternal life.
B. What is the only thing that can keep you from going to heaven? – Not believing in Jesus as our Lord and Savior
C. What would you have said to Michael (see above) if you were his friend? – Michael, I don’t get it. Why would you say that? Just like our parents on earth gave us rules to live by those rules were made to protect us from harm. Our parents loved us enough to make the rules in our homes for us to follow. It’s the same way with God. Jesus are those rules we are to live by. He isn’t trying to be mean or make our lives hard to live, he sent Jesus to be our Savior because God loves us even more than our earthly parents do, Jesus is the ultimate rule we need to follow. To live our life as Jesus lived his. God knows we are and won’t be perfect in this world, but he can see our hearts and that’s what brings joy to Him. He knows by our hearts and our lives if we are sincere and truly believe in Jesus as our Lord and Savior.
3. Read Luke 16:19-31
A. What do you learn about the rich man and Lazarus in verses 19-21? – This made so much more sense to me know. The rich man, not helping anyone in need on earth got his rewards on earth. He was not welcomed into heaven but sent to Hades to live in torment. But Lazarus, he was rewarded in heaven and was by Abraham’s side.
B. What is the first request the rich man makes of Abraham and what is his reply in verses 22-26? – He cried out for Abraham to have mercy on him and to send Lazarus to him and wet his lips with cool water. Abraham reminded the rich man that he got his rewards on earth, and he would now be in anguish while Lazarus will be comforted in heaven.
C. What is the second request he makes of Abraham, and what is Abraham’s reply in verses 27-29? – he begged Abraham to send Lazarus to his father’s home to warn them. Abraham told him that his family had Moses and the Prophets.
D. What is the rich man’s rebuttal, and what is Abraham’s reply? – The rich man told him that if someone came to them from the dead they would repent. Abraham said, if they didn’t hear and listen to them, they would not think anything of a dead man rising from the dead coming to warn them.
Julie — so true about a good God giving us good rules to live by. What I think Michael missed is that there is one “religion” by which you don’t get to heaven by obeying its rules. But I did like your point about a good God giving us good rules, What are your thoughts on this, Julie?
Dee, are you meaning that Michael is thinking there is more than one religion that says you can’t get to heaven if you don’t follow the rules, but to be in heaven with Jesus, (the one ‘religion’) we need to be obedient to His Word and His Ways. I may still not be following what you mean.
Monday: Texts
I am glad I play pickleball because it allows me to be “in the world.” I hear so many people repeating the lies of the enemy. For example, I overheard Michael tell another atheist: “I cannot believe in any religion that says unless you obey my rules, you will go to hell.” True, that is the way of religion, but it is not the way of the gospel, which the enemy has veiled to Michael.
2. Read John 3:16-18 and explain:
A. Why didn’t God send Jesus into the world, and why did He?
To judge it.
To save it.
B. What is the only thing that can keep you from going to heaven?
Not believing in Him.
C. What would you have said to Michael (see above) if you were his friend?
I would say that he is absolutely right…religion is about keeping rules and you will go to hell. But Christianity is about a relationship, it’s not based on keeping rules or being good but believing in Jesus, that He died for you on the cross and out of that relationship comes obedience and joy…knowing you will spend eternity with Him.
3. Read Luke 16:19-31
A. What do you learn about the rich man and Lazarus in verses 19-21?
The rich man was splendidly clothed in purple and fine linen, lived each day in luxury. He died, was buried and went to the place of the dead. There, in torment, he saw Abraham in the far distance with Lazarus at his side.
Lazarus,was a poor man who laid at the rich man’s gate covered with sores. Longed for scraps from the rich man’s table. Dogs licked his sores. He died and was carried to sit beside Abraham at the heavenly banquet.
B. What is the first request the rich man makes of Abraham and what is his reply in verses 22-26?
He asks Abraham to have pity on him and send Lazarus over to where he is to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool his tongue.
Abraham reminded the rich man that in life he had everything he needed and Lazarus had nothing. And Lazarus is now being comforted, and you are in anguish. Besides there was a great chasm separating them which no one can cross going either way.
C. What is the second request he makes of Abraham, and what is Abraham’s reply in verses 27-29?
He requested that Abraham at least send him to his father’s home so he could warn his five brothers so they wouldn’t end up in the place of torment he was in.
Abraham told him that Moses and the prophets have warned them and your brothers can read what they wrote.
D. What is the rich man’s rebuttal, and what is Abraham’s reply?
No, but if someone is sent to them from the dead they’ll repent of their sins and turn to God.
Abraham told him, if they won’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they won’t be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead.
I love that you began by telling Michael he’s absolutely right!
1. How have you sensed God’s goodness this last week? Taking care of 3 little ones this past week was easier than I was anticipating even with 2 of them getting sick. I’m glad that their parents got to go to Basic 2025 conference with Alistair Begg. It’s one that I always wanted to go to. God gave my husband and I patience and strength!
Thanking God for His faithfulness and endurance for you and your husband. Grandchildren are such a gift from God, Thankful that their parent could attend the conference.
What a good reason to babysit. But you rock Dawn. 3 little ones and 2 sick!
2. Read John 3:16-18 and explain:
A. Why didn’t God send Jesus into the world, and why did He? He was sent to save the world, not condemn it.
B. What is the only thing that can keep you from going to heaven? Unbelief
C. What would you have said to Michael (see above) if you were his friend? Christianity isn’t about following rules to avoid going to hell. It’s about God’s gift of salvation through Jesus.
3. Read Luke 16:19-31
A. What do you learn about the rich man and Lazarus in verses 19-21? The rich man lived a life of luxury while Lazarus lived a life of poverty and suffering.
B. What is the first request the rich man makes of Abraham and what is his reply in verses 22-26? To have Lazarus dip his finger in water to cool the rich man’s tongue. Abraham reminded him of when Lazarus needed relief during his life and the rich man did nothing to help him. Plus there is a chasm that cannot be crossed by either side.
C. What is the second request he makes of Abraham, and what is Abraham’s reply in verses 27-29? To have Lazarus go to the rich man’s brothers to warn them of their eternal fate. Abraham said let them learn from the prophets and Moses.
D. What is the rich man’s rebuttal, and what is Abraham’s reply? The rich man thought that if they saw someone return from the dead to warn them, that they would listen. Abraham said that if they won’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they won’t listen to someone who returned from the dead.
Tuesday: Part I of Sermon
4. Listen up to 8.39 where he closes with “God must also be a God of judgment.”
A. What stands out and why?
B. What is man’s default destination and why? Hell. God is just.
C. What kind of God does Western culture want? Love, it is assumed God is loving. And yet,long for a God of judgement in order to see evil punished. Is this true of all cultures? Why or why not? Eastern cultures assume the opposite and do not have a hard time expecting God to be just, but have a hard time seeing God can forgive anyone.
D. Why must God be a God of love and judgment? He is holy and must punish sin in order to fulfill his righteousness.
I forgot to type my answer to the question, what stood out and why? It stood out to me that there are only two destinations after death and of course the one no one wants to go to is the one we don’t want to believe. Surely, that is not real, and yet we all want those who commit terrible crimes to go there. As believers, we need to see ourselves as being rescued from Hell by our Savior in order to go to Heaven- THIS is what should seem unbelievable to us!
Love this from Chris about the gospel: THIS is what should seem unbelievable to us!
I agree with Dee! Dawn, this is so good and insightful.
Oops! I meant Chris 🤦🏻♀️
I just have to share this great quote from Corrie TenBoom that I heard today: to look around, be distressed; look within, be depressed; look at Jesus and be at rest. She also says to pray for forgiveness for our discouragement, for the Bible says to be of good courage. The worst can happen in life, but the best remains. She continues urging Christians to pray for one another to be aware of his presence through the Holy Spirit. Praying this for each of you, today. Blessings.
I too, agree, Chris! Truth! Love your Corrie ten Boom quote too!
Thank you Chris, I needed this today.
4. Listen up to 8.39 where he closes with “God must also be a God of judgment.”
A. What stands out and why?
Our final destination is in hell. I’ve never thought this way at all. I’ve always thought our final resting place is heaven and we have opportunity to lose that. Instead, if the final place is Hell then we need to gain heaven. But, I have also thought that we aren’t required to do good deeds, which this (sort of) implies. Instead, we love God and receive heaven as our fate.
Sin must be punished. True. Evil must be punished.
B. What is man’s default destination and why?
Hell is the final destination. We must embrace Jesus to enter heaven.
C. What kind of God does Western culture want? Is this true of all cultures? Why or why not?
We want a loving God. Some cultures want a judging God. They have a hard time believing that God just forgives “anyone.” My husband actually believes this somewhat. He doesn’t understand how a prisoner or really anyone, on his or her deathbed can just be forgiven when her or she accepts God. We need to test our assumptions against scripture.
D. Why must God be a God of love and judgment?
We really do want justice to be served because there is horrible evil in the world that needs to be attended to by someone. God is more so angry that humans have made this evil in the world.
That our natural final resting place is hell is a paradigm changer. Most funerals would lead you to believe the opposite, even if the person had no faith in Christ.
You are right about funerals. People want to be comforted in their losses and even when fruit is not seen in a person’s life, the message is about their resting place as heaven. We had two funerals a couple years ago for cousins of my husband. Both men died tragically of their drug addictions. Both men had been brought up to know the Lord. We don’t know the details of their final moments, but one in particular had a heart for the homeless he lived with and was looking to make sure their physical needs were met. This blossomed into a ministry to the homeless directed by his dad, but inspired by him and even started before his death. I have a friend who serves at funerals and has shared how sad are the funerals of unbelievers.
Tuesday: Part I of Sermon
4. Listen up to 8.39 where he closes with “God must also be a God of judgment.”
A. What stands out and why?
This really has nothing to do with this subject but it was so refreshing when he said, “So hear now the Word of the Lord Jesus,” before reading the passage. It showed reverence for the reading of truth…Amen!
I really like this from Chris…”As believers we need to see ourselves as being rescued from hell by our Savior in order to go to heaven – THIS is what should seem unbelievable to us!”
B. What is man’s default destination and why?
Man’s default destination is hell. There are only two destinations, heaven and hell and if you don’t embrace Jesus Christ in faith then the destination is hell.
C. What kind of God does Western culture want? Is this true of all cultures? Why or why not?
In a Western culture people want a God who is loving and forgiving.
No, this is not true of all cultures as in the Eastern culture they believe God judges evil and punishes wicked people. I found this interesting because my sister who is Buddhist says they don’t believe that anyone is evil and maybe that is why she has rejected Christianity and of course they don’t believe in hell. I am really at a loss in how to share the gospel with her as she does know it and so I ask God to show me how to love her with His love…any suggestions would be welcome😊
D. Why must God be a God of love and judgment?
He is a holy and righteous God and sin must be punished and because of His love for us He sent His only Son to die for our sin.
It does amaze me to realize there are those who don’t believe anyone is evil. Has she not been a mom?
lol. Mom’s know our children are born in sin. Haha. Seriously though, to believe no one is evil must be a coping mechanism for a person’s own sin-disbelief to an extreme. So I had to google this and found that Buddhists believe all beings possess Buddha-nature and are not inherently good or evil, but actions can produce karma (consequences of good or evil.) Buddha nature being the potential to overcome a current state and receive enlightenment or wisdom. The enemy really has creative twists on truth.
He does!
Sharon, So hard when believers reject the truth. I have a book called “Fast facts about False Religions” . It is a small book and easy to read. It addresses each religion separately. My daughter taught yoga for awhile. She was confused and thought Buddhism sounded good, because of all the “good” quotes. 🤪 She is a Christian, but was confused. That book seemed to be a good wake up call. I don’t know if it would help….isn’t eternity in Buddhism “Nervana”? …then rebirth?
I so appreciate everyone’s input😊
Dee, she has never had a child, but your question makes so much sense as we mothers do see sin in our own children.
Chris, you’re absolutely right in how the enemy twists truth. Your comment on “karma” being consequences of good or evil is thought provoking…hmm.
Patti, the book you had your daughter read sounds good…don’t know if my sister would read it, but worth a try. Yes, Buddhist actually believe in reincarnation and because of that she “worships” creation and struggles with anything dying or being killed as you can guess why😏
Yes, Sharon. I read the book and told my daughter (in my own words) what it said. It did connect with her for awhile. Then I gave her a copy of the book when she mentioned it again. It is so hard. She sounds like her soul is struggling, if she worships the earth. Everything on this earth will die, except what we cannot see, which is God! She needs our prayers.
Sharon — the real problem I think is the enemy’s deception and the answer to that is prayer.
Father, I do pray for you to overcome the lies of the enemy in Sharon’s sister’s mind. In Jesus Name I pray.
I don’t understand how people don’t believe there is evil in this world, when you have child rapists and murderers here. The innocent are robbed of innocence. Also, think of addictions of drugs. It’s awful. Abortion.
Maybe it’s as simple as asking her a question about one of these 👆. “How can you not believe there is evil, when innocent children are raped or murdered?” That would be an equivalent to the question posed to us this week about a loving God allowing people to go to hell. I wonder if she would say that “karma” would take care of them. Many get away with the crime and never endure a consequence, I’m sure.
A. What stands out and why? Scripture is truth. Many cannot believe a loving God can send people to hell. We need to test our assumptions with scripture. God cannot compromise His justice. Our opinions do not make an assumptions true. Christianity must be offending and correcting at some point (Tim Keller).
B. What is man’s default destination and why? Hell is our default, because we are sinners. We must give our lives to Jesus and accept His correction, be obedient to His Word and ask forgiveness for our sins.
C. What kind of God does Western culture want? Is this true of all cultures? Why or why not? Western culture wants a loving God, who sends no one to hell. God is loving, yet is just. Many cultures see God as judging evil and punishing evil.
D. Why must God be a God of love and judgment? God is Holy and cannot tolerate evil. Evil is the absence of God. God gave man choice, and if man rebels against the Word of God, he will spend eternity in hell, where he will be out of the presence of God. Heaven is eternity in the Presence of God.
Wednesday: Part II of Sermon
5. Listen from 8:40 to 17 when he begins “And Abraham tells this rich man…”
A. What stands out to you and why?
I never looked at the rich man asking that Lazarus be sent to him to cool his tongue as “serving him.” I just figured he wanted relief from his thirst/torture. But it makes sense as his request was just a continuation of the life he lived on earth.
B. Hess quotes Keller, who says God must disrupt our thinking at times. What does he mean?
There may be a truth from God’s Word that offends us and we may not want to believe it, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t truth and therefore we have to look at it with a different mindset, not based on how it makes us feel.
C. What does Hess bring out about the life of the rich man? About his purple clothing? About his focus? About his eternal fate?
He lived a life of indulgence, clothed in purple and he points out that purple dyes were hard to come by so he had the finest clothing.
His focus was on himself, his own pleasures and with no concern of others.
His eternal fate was hell, a place of eternal judgement.
D. What are the two eternal destinations, and what is the key difference?
Heaven is being present with God, His angels and saints.
Hell is being separated from God’s presence.
E. In the rich man’s earthly life, what kind of life did he choose?
He chose to live a life without any reference to God, separated from Him.
F. He quoted Lewis: two kinds of people — one says my will be done, and the other thy will be done. What did Lewis mean?
C.S. Lewis says that hell is the greatest monument to human freedom. Those that chose “my will,” chose hell.
G. Does the rich man express repentance? What does this teach us about why hell may be eternal?
I don’t see any evidence of repentance being expressed as he doesn’t ask Abraham if he can leave or seek mercy!
A life lived on earth that rebels against God continues in hell where there is eternal judgement/punishment.
I, Dee, say “may be” as I do see some evidence in scripture that after a time in hell, annihilation is a possibility for some. But I may be wrong. It is best to prepare for the worst possibility of eternal torment.
Dee, I need to know if I understand what you’re saying here. Do you believe that repentance can take place in hell resulting in salvation? And if so, where in scripture do you see evidence of this?
Sharon — my friend Twila, whom I so respect, recommended a book called “Why Hell” by Steve Gregg that gives three evangelical positions on hell. The first is traditional of eternal torment, the second is torment and then perish — the word perish as used in some verses like John 3:16 is like annihilation – ceasing to be — but not reconciliation with God. I don’t believe there is repentance in hell, which is the 3rd view, which I reject and most biblical scholars do as well. I think it is best to think the traditional is the true one, but the second view doesn’t seem impossible to me as there are degrees of punishment.Ceasing to exist is still eternal death and eternal punishment, but not eternal torment. Would love your thoughts!
I have never heard of this. Interesting. My first thought is that man looks for every escape route possible and our hearts being wicked would not want to admit there is no option except eternal punishment. Matthew 25: 46And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
Listen from 8:40 to 17 when he begins “And Abraham tells this rich man…”
A. What stands out to you and why?
Wow! The idea that we choose our position here on Earth and that is what we end up getting for eternity (!), unless we decide to follow Christ and His Ways. That hits me hard! I have never thought of hell and heaven this way! But, a question is how can the rich man actually see Abraham and the poor man? They are only separated by a chasm? I have never thought that either!
5.
B. Hess quotes Keller, who says God must disrupt our thinking at times. What does he mean?
I think he means that we need to wrestle with what the scriptures say as to be able to be thoughtful about them as well. If Christianity is the truth then there must be some sort of struggling toward correction at some point.
C. What does Hess bring out about the life of the rich man? About his purple clothing? About his focus? About his eternal fate?
He lacked nothing. He had the finest of everything in his life. Purple clothing was rare, yet he had it. His focus was on himself only and the things he treasured. Self-indulgence. He was unconcerned about Lazarus, outside his gate. He was unconcerned about God. His fate was that, that was all he got.
D. What are the two eternal destinations, and what is the key difference?
Heaven and hell. The difference is that in one you are with God and the saints, and have no needs. You are at peace. In hell, it is the life you lived on Earth but you are tormented, parched and longing for something all the time. Eternal pain, separated from his creator.
E. In the rich man’s earthly life, what kind of life did he choose?
A life of no lacking for nothing. He had everything he could possibly want and refused to help others.
F. He quoted Lewis: two kinds of people — one says my will be done, and the other thy will be done. What did Lewis mean?
Either focused on oneself or focused on God.
G. Does the rich man express repentance? What does this teach us about why hell may be eternal?
He does not seem to regret his choices as he begs for Abraham to help him. He is still living in self denial. He is still rebelling against God. Abraham tells him that he made his choices on Earth and now needed to live with the situation. It does seem that the rich man will spend eternity in hell, apart from God.
I would like to know where you see annihilation in the Bible.
Laura, Love your point about if Christianity is true there must be some struggling toward correction.
I think he mentioned a Tim Keller quote and I rephrased in my own words.
Laura — please see my answer to Sharon above.
A. What stands out to you and why? We start our trajectory to our eternal home by the way we live our lives on earth. Many people justify their behavior on this earth, by calling it human freedom…my will be done. We live in that kind of society, with a great lack of repentance for our sins. When most social media encourages “take care of number one” and “love yourself” it is a recipe for hell.
B. Hess quotes Keller, who says God must disrupt our thinking at times. What does he mean? When we are believers, God is offending and correcting our thinking. We are His sheep and we hear His voice . When we turn our hearts from God and make our own god and our own rules, we no longer are aware of God prompting us to turn from sin and follow Him. I think this saddens our Heavenly Father and He may leave us to our own ways.
C. What does Hess bring out about the life of the rich man? About his purple clothing? About his focus? About his eternal fate? The rich man led an indulgent life, unaware or not interested in the needs of others. There was no reference to God in his life. He did not seek or submit to God. He could never get to repentance because there was no acknowledgement of God at all.
D. What are the two eternal destinations, and what is the key difference? The two eternal destinations are Heaven and hell. Heaven in living in the Presence of God for eternity. Hell is spending eternity without God’s presence. It was interesting that Hess said that life on earth is the closest to hell the Christian will ever get and it is the closest to heaven for those who reject God.
E. In the rich man’s earthly life, what kind of life did he choose? The rich man chose a life of being self-indulgence, seeking only his own pleasures.It took no notice of those in need. He did not seek or submit to God. He was totally self absorbed, even when he was in hell. He saw no values in others, unless they could serve him.
F. He quoted Lewis: two kinds of people — one says my will be done, and the other thy will be done. What did Lewis mean? The godly man seeks God’s will for his life, regardless of the cost. Thy will be done, Lord. The self absorbed man seeks his own desires, with no regard for God or other people. His style is “my will be done, no matter the cost or harm done to others.”
G. Does the rich man express repentance? What does this teach us about why hell may be eternal? The rich man continues to have concern only for himself, with no conscience or regard for his sins or those he has harmed to get what he wants and what makes his life better. I don’t know how God judges unbelievers after their death. Maybe the final death is for those who don’t repent in hell. God must be just. I don’t know the answer, but it seems that the rich man did not change even in hell.
I, Dee, say “may be” as I do see some evidence in scripture that after a time in hell, annihilation is a possibility for some. But I may be wrong. It is best to prepare for the worst possibility of eternal torment.
I know my bringing up the possibility of annihilation has stirred some up. This pastor’s mentioning that there are degrees of punishment in hell caused me to ponder again the book I read called Why Hell. I answered Sharon below, but will put it here too — and would love your thoughts. As a teacher I carry responsibility so I think it is best to realize eternal torment is the most likely true view, but I do see, because of the word perish, some weight to the other view. Would love your thoughts — this is what I wrote to Sharon.
Sharon — my friend Twila, whom I so respect, recommended a book called “Why Hell” by Steve Gregg that gives three evangelical positions on hell. The first is traditional of eternal torment, the second is torment and then perish — the word perish as used in some verses like John 3:16 is like annihilation – ceasing to be — but not reconciliation with God. I don’t believe there is repentance in hell, which is the 3rd view, which I reject and most biblical scholars do as well. I think it is best to think the traditional is the true one, but the second view doesn’t seem impossible to me as there are degrees of punishment.Ceasing to exist is still eternal death and eternal punishment, but not eternal torment.
Thank you Dee for clarifying this. My thoughts: I do believe there are degrees of punishment in hell but I don’t think annihilation is one of them as I do believe that hell is eternal “conscious” punishment just as heaven is eternal “conscious” life. Matthew 25:46…the word eternal has the same meaning…”without end, never to cease, everlasting.”
Thank you Dee and Sharon. I appreciate both of your thoughts.
You are most likely right, Sharon. I see much support for that view. I don’t see a purpose for eternal torment, but I also know that my not seeing a purpose doesn’t mean God doesn’t have one. What do you think about the word perish meaning ceasing to exist? Thanks for being willing to discuss something so hard.
But isn’t that what this pastor is suggesting to us? Perpetual hell? That, we choose the life we want on Earth, and we get that life in the afterlife? So if I choose to not believe in God here on Earth then I have chosen my hell forever. I don’t see that I “die,” rather I experience hell (tormented) forever. I wonder what the original word in Aramaic (?) meant for perish…”…shall not perish, but have eternal life.”
I would think that is his meaning, Laura — and it is the traditional interpretation. I like the point that God does not send us, we choose it.
I appreciate you so much Dee and the grace you extend here. These discussions are good for me as I need to think these things through.
I did look up “perish” and saw the Strongs definition you posted below. I also looked at the Thayer’sGreek Lexicon and went down to the definition for John 3:16 and it said, “to incur the true or eternal life; to be delivered up to an eternal misery. “It is hard to imagine eternal torment but as you said, “not seeing a purpose doesn’t mean God doesn’t have one.”
I love these thought provoking discussions. Thank you all for your posts. Iron sharpens iron. Thank you, Dee, for all you do to keep us in His Word. You are such a blessing to all of us.
Amen🙏
God is so complex and He desired only obedience from His people, giving them chance after chance. They continually turned quickly to their idols and He destroyed many of them more than once. I am so thankful He sent His Son to redeem us! It is so difficult to understand hell, but certainly something to keep in mind. And so many stories from people who have died and had an encounter with Him ~ He is a just God and I cling to that . He judges our hearts and our motives. Is that possibly a partial point of this parable? The rich man did not have any motives that made him a decent human being; he sounds like a self serving narcissist. The poor man had no knowledge, yet he had a good heart, asking only for crumbs. That helps me see that we are responsible for what we know, and we are called to seek Him. “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall know even as also I am known.” 1 Cor 13:12 this helps me a bit… My pea brain has to simplify this. 🥹. Thank you for sharing the Steve Gregg book, Dee. You have served the Lord so well with your teaching. Thank you.
I agree Patti. He is a just God and we must cling to that.
This is to Laura. This is Strong’s definition for perish. I don’t know how helpful though:
ἀπόλλυμι apóllymi, ap-ol’-loo-mee; from G575 and the base of G3639; to destroy fully (reflexively, to perish, or lose), literally or figuratively:—destroy, die, lose, mar, perish.
Thanks Dee. Just wondered if the original word had different meanings.
A. What stands out to you and why? We are all guilty of rejecting our Creator in our lives and we all deserve hell. Because of the cross, God does not give us what we deserve. The judgment can be fulfilled while still saving sinners. Jesus drank the cup of God’s wrath in our place. God’s justice and mercy are displayed at the cross.
B. Alcorn says the best of life for unbelievers is earth, and for believers, the worst of life is earth. Thoughts? When unbelievers focus on the things that they think will fulfill their life, it is usually things that will “make them happy”, which is really a temporary state. It will not bring an inner joy to the soul. As Christians, we know that all the things of this earth will never satisfy our souls, yet having Jesus in charge of our lives, we have an inner peace that cannot be described. We don’t hold on as tightly to the things of this world and we have much joy to look forward to in eternity. We know the things that we see in this world will pass always but the unseen things are eternal. We trust God’s Word and we have peace. We can focused on the needs of others, which is more fulfilling than focusing on our own needs. We don’t have to crowd our brains with busyness to drown out the negative things in the world. We can be quiet, reflect and think more of others than ourselves.
C. What parable does Hess refer to for the idea that there may be degrees of punishment in hell? (Luke 12) Thoughts? The parable seems to address how we respond to the knowledge of God and His will. The slave who was knew the will of the master and disobeyed or disregarded it for his own benefit, will be punished severely. The slave who was not aware of the Master’s will, will not be punished as severely. I see lots of parallels in this parable. There are those who use God’s Word and laws to benefit themselves or to mistreat or belittle others. We are responsible to know God’s Word and behave the way He directs us. It is not a free ticket to use God’s people for propping up your self, or for your gain. Our responsibility is to use the gifts that God has given us to bring others to Him.
D. Holcomb says men will be judged according to the light and privileges they had on earth. Thoughts? Again, I believe we will be judged on how we use the different gifts that God has given each of us. It is not so much what we have, as how we care for what we have. The older I get, the more I want to give away the earthly items I have. I think the gifts of talents are also included. Have I used what He has given me for His kingdom?
E. This is so sobering to me, for I have had a privileged life of being raised in America, in a loving home, with a healthy body, mind, and material blessings. I’ve also had years of exceptional Bible teaching. I also know teachers will be judged more strictly. I am asking God how I can best live these final years and for forgiveness for not doing better in the past. How does this impact you? This is sobering for all of us in this country. I think of things I have done, the way I raised my children, the goals I had, how I shared my testimony. Did I give cheap grace, when I should have been more firm. There are always so many things….I am constantly asking for forgiveness for past errors and for better wisdom, generosity and grace for the future. Lord help me.
A. What stands out to you and why? We are all guilty of rejecting our Creator in our lives and we all deserve hell. Because of the cross, God does not give us what we deserve. The judgment can be fulfilled while still saving sinners. Jesus drank the cup of God’s wrath in our place. God’s justice and mercy are displayed at the cross. B. Alcorn says the best of life for unbelievers is earth, and for believers, the worst of life is earth. Thoughts? When unbelievers focus on the things that they think will fulfill their life, it is usually things that will “make them happy”, which is really a temporary state. It will not bring an inner joy to the soul. As Christians, we know that all the things of this earth will never satisfy our souls, yet having Jesus in charge of our lives, we have an inner peace that cannot be described. We don’t hold on as tightly to the things of this world and we have much joy to look forward to in eternity. We know the things that we see in this world will pass always but the unseen things are eternal. We trust God’s Word and we have peace. We can focused on the needs of others, which is more fulfilling than focusing on our own needs. We don’t have to crowd our brains with busyness to drown out the negative things in the world. We can be quiet, reflect and think more of others than ourselves. C. What parable does Hess refer to for the idea that there may be degrees of punishment in hell? (Luke 12) Thoughts? The parable seems to address how we respond to the knowledge of God and His will. The slave who was knew the will of the master and disobeyed or disregarded it for his own benefit, will be punished severely. The slave who was not aware of the Master’s will, will not be punished as severely. I see lots of parallels in this parable. There are those who use God’s Word and laws to benefit themselves or to mistreat or belittle others. We are responsible to know God’s Word and behave the way He directs us. It is not a free ticket to use God’s people for propping up your self, or for your gain. Our responsibility is to use the gifts that God has given us to bring others to Him.D. Holcomb says men will be judged according to the light and privileges they had on earth. Thoughts? Again, I believe we will be judged on how we use the different gifts that God has given each of us. It is not so much what we have, as how we care for what we have. The older I get, the more I want to give away the earthly items I have. I think the gifts of talents are also included. Have I used what He has given me for His kingdom?E. This is so sobering to me, for I have had a privileged life of being raised in America, in a loving home, with a healthy body, mind, and material blessings. I’ve also had years of exceptional Bible teaching. I also know teachers will be judged more strictly. I am asking God how I can best live these final years and for forgiveness for not doing better in the past. How does this impact you? This is sobering for all of us in this country. I think of things I have done, the way I raised my children, the goals I had, how I shared my testimony. Did I give cheap grace, when I should have been more firm. There are always so many things….I am constantly asking for forgiveness for past errors and for better wisdom, generosity and grace for the future. Lord help me.
Thursday: Part III of Sermon
6. Listen from 17 up to 23:33 when he says “As we come to the end of this story I want to offer three final reflections.”
A. What stands out to you and why?
B. Alcorn says the best of life for unbelievers is earth, and for believers, the worst of life is earth. Thoughts?
As a believer I’m looking forward to spending eternity with the Lord…it’s my joy and hope and will be better than anything I’ve experienced here on earth.
If I were a non-believer I would have nothing to hope for except what I have here on earth.
C. What parable does Hess refer to for the idea that there may be degrees of punishment in hell? (Luke 12) Thoughts?
A master gives the responsibility of managing his other servants and feeding them. If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward and the master will put him in charge of all he owns.
But if the servant thinks his master won’t be back for a while and begins beating the other servants, partying, and getting drunk and his master returns unannounced and unexpected he will cut the servant in pieces and banish him with the unfaithful.
A servant who knows what the master wants, but isn’t prepared and doesn’t carry out the instructions given him will be severely punished.
One who doesn’t know, then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly.
One who has been given much, much will be required in return.
One who has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.
In eternity there will be degrees of suffering for those who have rejected God.
D. Holcomb says men will be judged according to the light and privileges they had on earth. Thoughts?
He’s saying that men will be judged on the basis of light they had, not on the basis of a revelation they did not receive. Those who had many privileges will have the greater responsibility and those with fewer privileges will have less responsibility.
E. This is so sobering to me, for I have had a privileged life of being raised in America, in a loving home, with a healthy body, mind, and material blessings. I’ve also had years of exceptional Bible teaching. I also know teachers will be judged more strictly. I am asking God how I can best live these final years and for forgiveness for not doing better in the past. How does this impact you?
Sobering
Love your entire post, Sharon.🙏
Oh Patti, you’re too kind. I must confess I was exhausted when I did this and should have waited, but stubbornly I didn’t!!
Thank you for your encouragement ❤️
Your response made me smile. Shows you wanted to be in the Word even when exhausted!
Amen to Dee! I always enjoy your answers!
A. What stands out and why? This is such a good sermon. I love the quote by Rebecca McLaughlin: “ On the Cross, the One perfectly righteous, perfectly loving, perfectly innocent man, face the full force of God’s judgment. He drank it down and threw away the cup; in Biblical shorthand, He went to hell.” How can this not go to the core of our conscience, make us weep with a thankful heart of compassion, and give us the immediate desire to beg for forgiveness and repent.
B. What is the bad news and how should this impact us? We are all like the rich man in one respect~ left to ourselves, we love lives separate from God, going our own way. We all deserve His judgment. We shouldn’t be surprised anyone ends up in hell, we should be surprised anyone ends up in heaven. This brings back to my mind, the importance of abiding in Him and being in His Word daily. We have the world’s values everywhere we are daily. What we need in not on social media, it is in the Bible! God is Holy and Just and He cannot ignore sin, it would compromise His Holiness.
C. What is the good news and how should this impact us? God made a plan to rescue us from our sins, while fulfilling His judgment on the world. It was part of His plan from the beginning. It was the Cross. Jesus prayed in the Garden, “‘not my will, but Thy will”. God poured out His judgment and His mercy.
D. How is the cross a demonstration of both love and justice? God poured out His judgment for the sins of the world on His Perfect, sinless Son, Jesus. His mercy is that Jesus took that sin, so that we will not endure the judgment we deserve.
E. This was huge for me. How did Hess explain the words in the Apostles’ Creed, “He descended into hell.” Was this a new thought for you as it was for me? (I don’t know if the writers of the Apostles’ Creed meant this — I’ve heard many other explanations, but this was the most satisfying.) When the Apostle’s Creed says that Jesus descended into hell, it is describing that Jesus took the fullness of the punishment that we deserve. Thanking Jesus for saving our souls.
F. What is the one thing that can keep a person out of heaven if it isn’t sin? The one thing that can keep us out of heaven is unbelief. We need to trust in Jesus.
G. How might this sermon help you explain the gospel clearly in two sentences? We are sinners and there is no way that we can get to heaven on our own deeds. God knew this is true of all of us, so He sent His Perfect Son, on our behalf, to take the punishment we deserve, so that we may experience Heaven, which we don’t deserve.
H. Give us one name of someone you love for whom the gospel is veiled so we can pray for them and for you to have favor and wisdom. My son Ron, we call him, R2.
Lord, I love You more than life itself and I Praise Your Holy Name. You are the King of Kings. I give my life and my soul to you this day. I pray that I will abide in You each minute of every day and night. I bring R2 before your throne and I lay his soul at your feet. I pray that You will drop the scales from his eyes, so that he can truly know You, as His Savior. I pray that You will remove the anger and pride in his heart and soul, and melt his heart to love You truly. Lord, Dear Jesus, I pray that you will give R2 the desire to see You more clearly, follow You more nearly and love You more dearly. In the Mighty Name of Jesus, I pray.
Patti — had you ever heard that explanation before of “he descended into hell?”
I have not heard it explained exactly that way either, Dee. I found this explanation more comforting..it was temporary
Tuesday: Part I of Sermon
4. Listen up to 8.39 where he closes with “God must also be a God of judgment.”
A. What stands out and why? – I never really thought about the different cultures having a different view of what God appears to be. I guess when things happen that are grievous and you don’t see justice, you could have the feeling that God just lets whatever happen, happen. That he doesn’t see the pain we may be suffering because of the injustice. Our surroundings and circumstances could easily blind us from the truth.
B. What is man’s default destination and why? – He said the default destination that most think about is hell. And the way to not go there is to have a relationship with Jesus that is grounded in His Word.
C. What kind of God does Western culture want? Is this true of all cultures? Why or why not? – The Western culture mostly assume that God is loving and forgiving to everyone. But other cultures do not believe this fully. They see justice being served to those who do evil. I wonder as I write this, if these people think about whose rules are being followed to serve justice. Is evil different to everyone. Do some think that evils are not equal across the world?
D. Why must God be a God of love and judgment? – God cannot tolerate sin and injustice, because he is a God of love and justice. He can’t ignore the sin of the world. He will deal with it, there will be judgement from God. We just have to remember that it may not be in the form of justice we think it should be.
Wednesday: Part II of Sermon
5. Listen from 8:40 to 17 when he begins “And Abraham tells this rich man…”
A. What stands out to you and why? – WOW, we have some serious choices to make here on earth. It’s up to us where we end up.
B. Hess quotes Keller, who says God must disrupt our thinking at times. What does he mean? – I think that Keller meant God has to put things in our path for us, things that may make us stumble so he can see how we choose to handle them. Will we stand firm in our beliefs or fall away. He wants to see if our hearts are true to Him.
C. What does Hess bring out about the life of the rich man? About his purple clothing? About his focus? About his eternal fate? – The rich man is thinking only about his own pleasures. Having the purple clothing is showing is extravagant spending and wealth. His focus is far from what God’s Word says. He isn’t thinking about having God in his life or helping those that God has placed before him. His eternal fate is further away, going in the opposite direction of where God is heading.
D. What are the two eternal destinations, and what is the key difference? – The two eternal destinations are heaven and hell. Heaven is where God, his angels and his saints are all at, it’s where God’s presence is at. Hell is away from God, nothing of God is there, his presence will never be in hell.
E. In the rich man’s earthly life, what kind of life did he choose? – He chose a life of self-indulgence. A life without any regard to God or his ways. He wanted to satisfy himself with no care for anyone else.
F. He quoted Lewis: two kinds of people — one says my will be done, and the other thy will be done. What did Lewis mean? – The one that says ‘my will be done’ has no regard for God. This person doesn’t care what God thinks or says. The one that says ‘thy will be done’ wants God in their life, they are about pleasing God and doing His will for their life.
G. Does the rich man express repentance? What does this teach us about why hell may be eternal? – Not at all. This was something new I saw today. He didn’t ask God to forgive him for his past sins; he just wanted to be made comfortable. Again, thinking of himself and not in any way thinking how his life on earth and the choices he made was a big mistake and that those choices is what got him to hell. If you don’t repent, ask for forgiveness and accept Jesus into your life, you will never get out of hell.
I, Dee, say “may be” as I do see some evidence in scripture that after a time in hell, annihilation is a possibility for some. But I may be wrong. It is best to prepare for the worst possibility of eternal torment. – This is something to think about for sure.
Thursday: Part III of Sermon
6. Listen from 17 up to 23:33 when he says “As we come to the end of this story I want to offer three final reflections.”
A. What stands out to you and why? – Some will not realize that their self-indulgence on earth may be the only heaven they see. WOW!
B. Alcorn says the best of life for unbelievers is earth, and for believers, the worst of life is earth. Thoughts? – I would agree. I think we as believers, when we see so much evil going on in the world, that we want Jesus to come back now and end the misery we are facing. But those who are living a life of ‘freedom’ thinking nothing applies to them from the Word of God, will not be thinking that once their life on earth is over. If we disregard Jesus, and God’s Word, He will disregard us at our last breath.
C. What parable does Hess refer to for the idea that there may be degrees of punishment in hell? (Luke 12) Thoughts? – The master putting a servant over his household who didn’t act right. I guess for those who are ending up in hell, will have some consolation. Sin is sin and it will lead to hell, but once there, they may have a little bit of hope. I still will choose life in heaven with God.
D. Holcomb says men will be judged according to the light and privileges they had on earth. Thoughts? – I would have to agree to a point. I think that most people know who God is and what he stands for or we wouldn’t have so much resistance as believers. At least those in the western, modern world anyway should know. And in these cases, eyes have been opened and will be judged accordingly. Other third world countries, maybe not so much, unless there are missionaries going there to preach the Good News. Just as God holds us to a standard of our knowledge, though he does expect us to grow, I would think he would expect everyone’s eyes to open once they have heard.
E. This is so sobering to me, for I have had a privileged life of being raised in America, in a loving home, with a healthy body, mind, and material blessings. I’ve also had years of exceptional Bible teaching. I also know teachers will be judged more strictly. I am asking God how I can best live these final years and for forgiveness for not doing better in the past. How does this impact you? – I have to always ask God to help me be bold to those he puts in my path. But after listening to this sermon, it has made even more of an impact. I can’t hide behind my shyness or feel intimidated. If he has called me, he will equip me. Lord, help me feel equipped and to step out of my box, so those you place before me will hear about you from me, or even by watching me.
Aww Julie — I love you saying, “I can’t hide behind my shyness.”
Julie, I love your answer to B. It is a sobering thought that He will disregard us at our last breath. I agree, this sermon has made an impact on me, as well!
6. Listen from 17 up to 23:33 when he says “As we come to the end of this story I want to offer three final reflections.”
A. What stands out to you and why?
I think the idea of hell being in” levels” stands out to me. It reminds me of the book Dante’s Inferno. I’m not sure I agree that his analogy helps to explain this (where he talks about the parable with the master going away and leaving the servant to take care of his home). I’m not following his thought process there.
B. Alcorn says the best of life for unbelievers is earth, and for believers, the worst of life is earth. Thoughts?
Wow. My husband has toyed with the thought that perhaps our life here on Earth is a test. I think it’s interesting to think of something better than Earth. I wouldn’t want my life on Earth to be perpetual. I would drive me crazy! For eternity!
C. What parable does Hess refer to for the idea that there may be degrees of punishment in hell? (Luke 12) Thoughts?
See above.
D. Holcomb says men will be judged according to the light and privileges they had on earth. Thoughts?
So I’m combining this question with your question below. We do have to live and support our families. God would want us to be faithful to the people we love. I suppose if we are afforded a comfortable life then we should share with others. We are privileged to have a home and cars and food on the table. But, in my case, we have been taken advantage of financially (our daughter and SIL). Our daughter has always worked but her husband has not. It would be different if he helped around the house or took care of the children, but he does not. He is a loafer.
So, Dee, I think you have used your life to help others (me!) know Jesus. That’s all He really wants, right? He left us here to spread the “good news.” You, of all people, have done that, with books, prison visits, and this blog. You have used your comfort to help many people. Someone like me should worry! But, I don’t. He has orchestrated it all. In my own little realm I have tried to do my best. I failed with the first batch of kids and am trying to do better this time. I am flawed. If someone needs my help, I help. My heart is in the right place even if I don’t always do the right thing. Sigh. Life is hard. Have mercy on me Lord.
E. This is so sobering to me, for I have had a privileged life of being raised in America, in a loving home, with a healthy body, mind, and material blessings. I’ve also had years of exceptional Bible teaching. I also know teachers will be judged more strictly. I am asking God how I can best live these final years and for forgiveness for not doing better in the past. How does this impact you?
I should have also mentioned that we give to our church and support missionaries in that giving. I have helped the group called “End 68 hours of Hunger” in our town at times. I can always do better. We try not to waste money, rather use it for our family’s living. Where we live, it’s not very easy to find places to help in ways. Sometimes it’s dangerous to help, as well. Again, I could do a better job.
Laura — you have had such a hard situation with your mentally challenged daughter. Taking in the children is caring for the vulnerable. Where are you with the court date?
Laura, None of us had “practice kids” . Being a parent is not easy. I am so hard on myself trying to figure out what I should have done different. Each child is different. All we can do is ask for the Lord’s forgiveness for what we did wrong….and try to learn and change. I know our Father wants redemption and I pray for that in my family daily. We all have choices, consciences and we all make mistakes, so do our children. I pray I can’t encourage mine when they feel guilt with their own children.
I agree, Dee has done so much for others! I am so thankful for her, she is a wonderful model to follow, truly a blessing to so many.
I pray for the time I have left on this planet, that I use every opportunity I have, to draw someone to Jesus, to befriend the friendless, to have a heart for the needy and the loners. I cannot replay the past, I have to cling to Jesus every day.
Me too, Patti — I pray this for me too!
I pray for the time I have left on this planet, that I use every opportunity I have, to draw someone to Jesus, to befriend the friendless, to have a heart for the needy and the loners. I cannot replay the past, I have to cling to Jesus every day.
Love this.
Practice kids! Haha. If only. You are right. Forge ahead and do the next right thing. ♥️
7. Listen to the end.
A. What stands out and why?
The idea that we should all be going to hell, not heaven. We are all sinners. BUT, isn’t that why God sent Jesus? If so, it absolves us, right? As long as we believe, correct?
B. What is the bad news and how should this impact us?
The story is one of all of us. We are like the rich man. We all live lives for ourselves. We all deserve God’s judgement. He can’t ignore sin.
C. What is the good news and how should this impact us?
The cross is the good news. We can be rescued while still fulfilling His judgement.
D. How is the cross a demonstration of both love and justice?
His justice is the pouring out of judgement on Christ. For us. It showed His love for us.
E. This was huge for me. How did Hess explain the words in the Apostles’ Creed, “He descended into hell.” Was this a new thought for you as it was for me? (I don’t know if the writers of the Apostles’ Creed meant this — I’ve heard many other explanations, but this was the most satisfying.)
The phrase is an expression of Jesus experiencing the fullness of the punishment we deserved.
I thought we talked about this before in the blog. Some said it was “blasphemy” to suggest that Christ went to hell. I grew up in the Methodist church, saying the apostles creed each week. We said it like this:
The Apostles’ Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty,creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,who was conceived by the Holy Spiritand born of the virgin Mary.He suffered under Pontius Pilate,was crucified, died, and was buried;he descended to hell.The third day he rose again from the dead.He ascended to heavenand is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty.From there he will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,the holy catholic* church,the communion of saints,the forgiveness of sins,the resurrection of the body,and the life everlasting. Amen
So this was not a new thought for me, rather our discussion on the blog made it seem like we shouldn’t say that.
F. What is the one thing that can keep a person out of heaven if it isn’t sin?
Your unbelief can keep you out of heaven.
G. How might this sermon help you explain the gospel clearly in two sentences?
The Gospel is the “good news” of we, sinners, salvation! It explains how we, as sinners, doomed to hell, are actually allowed to enter heaven with God because Christ took our sin on Himself to give us that privilege.
H. Give us one name of someone you love for whom the gospel is veiled so we can pray for them and for you to have favor and wisdom.
William
I’m trying to remember our discussion on “descended into hell.” The two explanations usually given are as follows, but I much prefer the one we heard in this sermon. I would not be dogmatic about it, for I really don’t know. But He certainly did endure hell on the cross.
1 Peter 3:18-20, describes Jesus proclaiming a message to “spirits in prison” after his death and before his resurrection. These spirits are interpreted as being the disobedient people who lived during Noah’s time. Some interpret this as Jesus going to hell to preach a message of judgment to the condemned, while others see it as a proclamation of victory over spiritual forces of darkness.
Interesting!
Friday: Part IV of Sermon
7. Listen to the end.
A. What stands out and why?
All of it stood out to me…so informative and humbling.
B. What is the bad news and how should this impact us?
This story about the rich man is about all of us. We all reject God and live a life for self. It reminded me of what Paul says in Colossians 1:21, (In the previous verse Paul talks about God through Christ reconciled every to Himself by means of Christ’s blood on the cross.) “This includes you who were once far away from God, you were His enemies, separated from Him by your evil thoughts and actions.”
I need to remember and be humbled why and who I am in Christ…amazing grace!
C. What is the good news and how should this impact us?
The cross.
I continue in Colossians 1:22, “Yet now He has reconciled you to Himself through the death of Christ in His physical body. As a result, He has brought you into His own presence, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before Him without a single fault.”
The impact this has comes in verse 23a of Colossians 1, “But you must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. Don’t drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News.”
D. How is the cross a demonstration of both love and justice?
God poured out His judgement on Christ instead of me and Jesus drank the cup of wrath because of His love for me.
E. This was huge for me. How did Hess explain the words in the Apostles’ Creed, “He descended into hell.” Was this a new thought for you as it was for me? (I don’t know if the writers of the Apostles’ Creed meant this — I’ve heard many other explanations, but this was the most satisfying.)
“Jesus descending into hell is a way of trying to express that Jesus experienced the fullness of the punishment we deserved and He did this so we could be saved from hell.”
I have never heard this explained like this before, but it makes perfect sense and I am so thankful.
F. What is the one thing that can keep a person out of heaven if it isn’t sin?
Unbelief…not trusting in Jesus Christ as Savior.
G. How might this sermon help you explain the gospel clearly in two sentences?
A loving God would not send you to hell, that is your choice,but a choice you could make instead is to accept that He loved you enough to send His only Son, Jesus. Jesus took the punishment for sin that you deserved and died so you could be made right with God and live eternally with Him in heaven.
(This is hard to do in two sentences, but I appreciate the challenge).
H. Give us one name of someone you love for whom the gospel is veiled so we can pray for them and for you to have favor and wisdom.
Ruth
You did wonderfully with your two sentences!
8. What is your takeaway and why?
My takeaways are: the importance of being in God’s Word, daily. The importance is being in a Bible believing church with a community of believers. Being in a group that continually studies the Word of God. Having Christian friends, who you can share and study with.
I read two verses from a post that was sent to me that I think apply to this lesson. “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked…but his delight is in the law of the LORD” Psalm 1:1-2
”Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction …But the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life.” Matthew 7:13-14
Great takeaway Patti and like the passage from Matthew…goes well with this study.
Thank you all for the discussions here. We had busy graduation ceremonies and festivities in our community. As much as I wanted to participate, I knew my mind was too full to take on this topic of hell. I came back here and read all the comments, and two things have stood out for me: the phrase” descended to hell” and the mention of degrees of punishment. That Jesus suffered hell on the cross gave me the comfort that it was a temporary hell for Him, with my salvation in view. It does not minimize any iota of his suffering, and I am ever so grateful that He did that so I do not have to experience hell. This should be a daily source of gratitude for me.