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Inglewood First UMC reflects on the sermon and scripture from the previous Sunday’s worship. Below, you fill find questions that can be used for Bible Study, small groups or personal devotion. Let the scripture speak in to your life! Expect great things!
Opening Prayer
Kind and gracious Lord, you are the creator of all things, the author of life, and our loving God. We thank you for your faithful presence in our lives, and we thank you for the Word of God.
As we prepare to study your Word together, we ask you to open our minds. Help us clear away the clutter and quiet any outside voices so we can hear only what you long to speak to us.
Scripture: Luke 16:19-25 (Common English Bible)
19 “There was a certain rich man who clothed himself in purple and fine linen, and who feasted luxuriously every day. 20 At his gate lay a certain poor man named Lazarus who was covered with sores. 21 Lazarus longed to eat the crumbs that fell from the rich man’s table. Instead, dogs would come and lick his sores.
22 “The poor man died and was carried by angels to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 While being tormented in the place of the dead, he looked up and saw Abraham at a distance with Lazarus at his side. 24 He shouted, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me. Send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I’m suffering in this flame.’ 25 But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that during your lifetime you received good things, whereas Lazarus received terrible things. Now Lazarus is being comforted and you are in great pain.
Summary:
‘On Second Thought’ is a phrase that expresses openness to “thinking about something again.” We may think we know everything we need to know about faith in God, but every now and then, it’s important to be open to think again.
In this story, a rich man assumes that because he worked his way to the top in the world, that he is destined to stay on top in heaven. He is in for a “second thought” that is rude awakening.
Reflection Questions:
- What is a word, phrase or image that comes to mind when you read or hear the text?
- The rich man thought he earned his way to prosperity. On second thought, he was on a path to “great pain”. Lazarus seems to be on a terrible path, but in the end is in heaven with God. How are we like this rich man in this scripture? How are we like Lazarus in this passage? What are the signs that we are on the right path?
- What does this scripture teach you about heaven?
- What does God invite you to do, change or be through this passage?
Discipleship Huddle Questions:
- How is it with your soul?
- How does your soul prosper?
Closing Prayer
God, who lifts up the humble, give us guidance to see how we might be part of your mission of the redemption of the world. Give us the hands of compassion to extend your love and grace. Amen.