The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s side. The rich man died and was buried, and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side.(Luke 16:22-23)
Among the many lessons we learn from the story of the rich man and Lazarus, the reality of eternity is surely near the top of the list. Heaven is real – there is a place of rejoicing to pursue! Hell is also real – there is a place of torment to avoid.
The rich man died and immediately found himself in anguish. The beggar died and straightaway found himself in a place of rest and peace. The point is impressed upon us: all of us will be somewhere forever.
The Lord not only has prepared a place of joy where we might be together eternally (John 14:2-3), He has also prepared a place of righteous punishment for those who have not obeyed the Gospel (Matthew 25:41). “Eternal punishment” is just as real as “eternal life” (Matthew 25:46).
Whereas most long to go to Heaven, significantly fewer imagine that they are in danger of facing the fires of Hell. Through the years, some believers have been embarrassed to tell the world about Hell while some non-believers have been angered that it may be a reality. Thus, it has become increasingly common for two false doctrines to be pushed: (1) Stop believing that Hell is a real place. (2) Believe Hell is a real place, but also believe that almost nobody goes there.
Do we believe Jesus spoke the truth? He said Hell was real and many will find their way there (Matthew 7:13; Mark 9:47-48). Do we believe that sin really is terrible? Scripture indicates that our sin deserves wrath and death (Romans 2:5; 6:23). Do we believe that the death of Jesus on the cross was loving, wonderful, and necessary? He gave His life for ours (Matthew 20:28).
Jesus loves us so He tells us the truth about Heaven and Hell. He died on the cross so that we could enjoy Heaven and never have to experience Hell.
Contemplate what Scripture says about the beauty of Heaven (Revelation 21-22).
Give thanks that our Lord Jesus died so that we could live each day with assurance about our eternal destiny (Heb. 6:11; 10:22).
