Pastor Marshall Ochs | April 21, 2024
In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Luke 16. This chapter includes two parables and a rebuke of the Pharisees. Jesus uses negative examples in his parables to contrast how disciples should invest in God’s Kingdom and the dangers of living as a Pharisee. The negative examples in His parables remind us that we can learn many things from trials and tribulations. We don’t need perfect circumstances to grow, we need proper focus on God’s Kingdom.
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In the Gospel of Luke, we encounter a rich tapestry of parables, each teaching us valuable lessons. Some parables illuminate positive examples, such as the joy of finding a lost coin or the compassion of the Good Samaritan. Others present warnings, revealing the consequences of greed, pride, or spiritual blindness.
In Luke 16, we find two parables featuring negative examples: the parable of the dishonest manager and the story of the rich man and Lazarus. These teachings challenge us to consider our priorities and the use of our resources in light of eternity.
The first parable begins with a wealthy man who learns that his manager has taken advantage of his position by wasting his possessions. He calls the manager to give an account of his stewardship and announces his imminent dismissal. Faced with a crisis, the manager devises a cunning plan. He reduces the debts owed to his master by various debtors.
In Luke 16:19-31, we encounter the story of a rich man who lived in luxury, indifferent to the suffering of others, especially the beggar named Lazarus at his gate. Their lives differ, one adorned with wealth, the other marked by destitution and illness.
But their paths converge after their deaths, where the rich man finds himself in torment while Lazarus reclines by Abraham's side. Here, Jesus paints a vivid picture of the consequences of a life lived solely for self-indulgence and disregard for the difficulty of others. It exposes the hardened hearts and misplaced priorities of the religious leaders of Jesus' time. Even in torment, the rich man pleads for a sign to warn his family, a sign beyond signs, yet his request is denied. Why? Because they have Moses and the prophets, they have the Word of God to guide them. Yet, even a resurrection would not convince them if they refuse to heed that.
Let us not be like the rich man, fixated on the fleeting pleasures of this world. Instead, let us heed Jesus' call to love God and love our neighbors as ourselves.
Reflection Questions:
How am I currently stewarding the resources God has given me, including my finances, time, talents, and influence?
Am I using my resources primarily for my own benefit, or am I actively seeking to bless others and advance God's kingdom?
What changes do I need to make in my priorities and lifestyle to align more closely with God's stewardship principles?
How can I cultivate a heart of generosity and selflessness in my approach to wealth and possessions?
How can I avoid being overly critical and judgmental of those who are not like me?
How can I stop running from the pain I am walking through and embrace the lessons God is teaching me?
What is the Holy Spirit asking you to leave at the feet of Jesus?