What practical steps can we take to warn loved ones about eternal consequences? The cry from beyond “‘Then I beg you, father,’ he said, ‘send Lazarus to my father’s house,’” (Luke 16:27) Let the urgency sink in The rich man’s plea shows two realities: eternal separation is real, and warning the living is urgent (Luke 16:27-28; 2 Corinthians 5:10-11). Heart preparation • Ask God to deepen compassion (Romans 9:2-3). • Remember we were rescued too (Ephesians 2:1-5). • Allow Scripture to stir holy fear (Hebrews 10:31). Live a credible witness • Walk in integrity; hypocrisy dulls any warning (Matthew 5:16). • Let joy and peace make the gospel attractive (Philippians 4:4-7). • Confess sin quickly; redeemed authenticity speaks loudly (1 John 1:9). Speak the truth in love • Begin with genuine relationship; earn the right to be heard (1 Thessalonians 2:8). • Use everyday moments—meals, drives, hobbies—to share (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). • Keep tone gracious yet direct (Ephesians 4:15; Colossians 4:6). Share clear gospel content • God’s holiness and justice (Romans 3:23; 6:23). • Christ’s substitutionary death and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Urgent call to repent and believe (Acts 17:30-31; 2 Corinthians 6:2). Avoid theological “rabbit trails”; stay on the core message (1 Corinthians 2:2). Leverage Scripture, not speculation • Read passages aloud—let the Word pierce (Hebrews 4:12). • Show prophetic promises fulfilled to ground faith (Luke 24:44-47). • Encourage them to read a Gospel account together; God’s voice is in the text (John 20:31). Use testimony wisely • Share your own story of conviction and rescue (Mark 5:19). • Highlight God’s faithfulness, not personal achievement (Psalm 115:1). Pray and fast for open hearts • Pray consistently for conviction (John 16:8). • Ask for spiritual sight to be granted (2 Corinthians 4:4-6). • Fast when led—spiritual battles require spiritual weapons (Matthew 17:21). Provide ongoing support • Offer rides to church, Bible study links, Christian books (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Follow up after conversations; show persistent love (Galatians 6:9). • Celebrate any step toward Christ, however small (Luke 15:7). Trust God with the results Our part is faithful sowing; God alone gives growth (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). The rich man could no longer act, but we still can—let’s warn, love, and point our loved ones to the Savior while there is time. |
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