He said, No, Father Abraham; but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’” vs. 30
Luke 16:27-31
In the second half of the parable, attention moves away from the rich man’s wealth, as he expresses concern for his five brothers, and asks Father Abraham to send Lazarus to testify to them. He believes that they will repent if they hear the poor man’s story. Abraham is not convinced. The brothers have heard the testimony of Moses and the prophets and have had ample opportunity to change their ways. He says that they wouldn’t believe even if someone would rise from the dead, perhaps an ironic reference to Jesus’ own resurrection. And that is of course the gospel truth! Unbelief is a tough nut to crack, and we’ve seen it repeatedly. Believers have heard the words of Jesus regarding wealth for generations–and seldom will they pay any attention. They simply assume that it doesn’t have anything to do with them, that they’re immune to the allure of wealth and that they can love money to their hearts content. Millions of people are ravaged by poverty and hunger every year, and while thousands do respond generously, too many others continue to use their wealth for conspicuous consumption. They do this knowing full well that Jesus expects them to give generously and without regard for their own needs. We know what Jesus expects of us, but we’re unwilling to do it!
Thought for the Day: What might cause a wealthy person to repent?
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