When God Says …
“But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.” (Luke 16:25-26 KJV).
Continuing on the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, these verses paint a vivid illustration of the "great reversal of fortunes” that happen in the afterlife. This highlights the finality of decisions and actions done during life in the earthly realm. The great flip over is affirmed strongly by Abraham’s words to the rich man, "...in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented" (Luke 16:25). This highlights that earthly wealth and luxury are not indicators of God's favor, nor is poverty a sign of a curse. The focus is on the consequences of living selfishly versus trusting in God’s unmerited favor. Grace for grace the scriptures say (John 1:16) for those who yield their lives in Christ Jesus.
Abraham’s response to the rich man’s pleas for comfort in his anguish reveal that "a great chasm is fixed" between heaven (Abraham’s bosom) and hell (the place of torment), making it impossible for anyone to cross over. This signifies that after death, one's destiny is sealed, emphasizing that there is no more "second chance" for salvation after death, as some religion deceitfully teach many to believe. This life is our only place and time to surrender for salvation in Christ Jesus by grace.
Yes, this realm of life is humanity’s only opportunity to make decisions and work to rest in grace by faith in Christ Jesus and live for eternity. The time is now, rather than putting off believing, as tomorrow is not yet ours to claim. Today is our allotted time. It is written, Scriptures declare: “For he says, “In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC.
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
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