Thursday Bible Study

  {PARABLE} the rich man and Lazarus_   Luke 16:19-31   Have you ever heard someone say that religion is just  a ‘crutch’ or just a source of comfort for the weak?   Have you ever heard someone say that religious people pay no attention to those who are hungry or suffering?   Christianity doesn’t teach passive suffering in the face of injustice and oppression. Jesus calls us to serve those who are in need.     [Discussion starter] Have you ever been asked for money by someone homeless?   How did you react?     The final parable in this study reminds us that suffering in this life can be replaced by bliss in the next ...     [Read Luke 16:19-31]     In verses 19-21, how does the parable reveal the rich man’s lack of concern for Lazarus?       How would you account for the rich man’s indifference towards Lazarus?       What are some of the ways that you have heard people explain why ...

  {PARABLE} of the rich fool_   Luke 12:13-21   It’s been said that the last parts of us to be converted are our pockets and purses.   Many of us are so secretive about our feelings on the subject of money, that we have concealed them even from ourselves in our unconscious m inds. Unconsciously, we yearn for more material things, while consciously, we think we want Chris t’s Kingdom.     [Group discussion starter] As a group, make a list of as many fears as you can, that keep people focused on making and having “enough” money.     The parable in this study illustrates a tension in the heart of every Christian, a tension affecting poor and rich alike. How do we resolve the conflict between our des ires for earthly and heavenly treasure, earthly and heavenly security, Kingdom values and values of the world?...     [Read Luke 12: 13-21]     If you were to give this story a newspaper headline, what would it be?     ...