How should Luke 16:28 influence our urgency in sharing the Gospel message? Luke 16:28—The Cry from Torment “ ‘For I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come into this place of torment.’ ” The Scene Jesus Presents • A real man in conscious, fiery torment (vv. 23–24) • Total inability to cross from judgment to comfort (v. 26) • A desperate plea—not for himself, but for those still alive (v. 28) What the Verse Teaches about Eternal Consequences • Hell is immediate, personal, and irreversible (cf. Matthew 25:46). • Memories, affections, and concern for loved ones remain intact. • The damned recognize the sufficiency of God’s Word to save the living (v. 29). Why This Fuels Urgency in Evangelism • The lost in hell beg for evangelists; we are the ones who can still speak. • Time is short—after death, no second chance exists (Hebrews 9:27). • Love compels us to act before loved ones cross the point of no return (2 Corinthians 5:14–15). Practical Implications for Daily Witness – Speak plainly about sin, judgment, and the cross; softening truth helps no one. – Leverage every relationship—family first, just as the rich man pleaded for his brothers. – Trust Scripture’s power: “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). – Live credibly; hypocrisy discredits the message (Philippians 2:15–16). – Pray for open doors and boldness (Colossians 4:3–4). Action Steps Right Now 1. List the names of unsaved relatives and friends—start with five, mirroring the verse. 2. Commit to share the Gospel with each one personally this month. 3. Memorize Luke 16:28 as a daily reminder of what is at stake. 4. Set regular times to intercede for them by name. 5. Partner with another believer for accountability and encouragement. Scriptures That Reinforce the Call • Ezekiel 33:11—God has “no pleasure in the death of the wicked.” • John 3:36—“Whoever rejects the Son will not see life, but God’s wrath remains on him.” • Acts 4:12—“There is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” • 2 Corinthians 6:2—“Now is the day of salvation.” Hell’s occupants would evangelize if they could. We still can—and must. |
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