The Rich Man and Lazarus – Part 1

June 23, 2025

Broadcast

                   The Rich Man and Lazarus - Part 1
                             Luke 16:19-21
                              06/23/2025


        19   There was a rich man who was clothed in purple and
             fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day.
        20   And at his gate was laid a poor man named Lazarus,
             covered with sores,
        21   who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich
             man's table. Moreover, even the dogs came and
             licked his sores.  (ESV)

        During the first weeks after Pentecost, the readings for
   each Sunday focus on the questions, ``What is the Church?''
   ``How are we saved from sin and death?''  ``What is the role of
   good works in our salvation?''  The story of the Rich Man and
   Lazarus gives us some insight as we ponder these questions.

        There was a rich man who was clothed in purple and fine
        linen and who feasted sumptuously every day.  And at
        his gate was laid a poor man named Lazarus, covered
        with sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from
        the rich man's table. Moreover, even the dogs came and
        licked his sores.


        As we consider the two men, the rich man would be a leader
   in the community.  Everyone desires to get on the good side of
   the wealthy, even if the wealthy person is selfish and arrogant,
   as we will discover was the case of this gentleman.  At the same
   time, everyone would try to avoid the diseased, poverty-stricken
   beggar.

        Both of these men are considered children of Abraham,
   members of the Church.  Both seek the joy of heaven, the peace of
   knowing their sins are forgiven, that they are acceptable to God.

        This week we will consider the Church, the people of God who
   are gathered at God's invitation, as we read this story.

        May our Lord grant you the peace and comfort which comes
   from His promise of forgiveness and life everlasting.  Amen.