Is Hell For Real?

Series: SO You're Dead...Now What?"
May 16, 2010

Opening:
If you were to bring up the subject of “hell” to friends or co-workers who are not Christ followers, what kinds of reactions might you experience?
What do you imagine heaven and hell will be like?

From what Jesus says, hell is very real and something to be avoided at all costs. So, why is it difficult for many of us to talk about hell?

Read Luke 16:19-31

Explore:
How did Jesus describe the rich man in the story? (16:19)
What does the story tell us about Lazarus? (16:20)
What role did angels play in this story? (16:22)
Where did the angels take Lazarus? (16:22)
What difference did the rich man's wealth make in his eternal destiny? (16:22-23)
What does this parable reveal about heaven and hell? (16:22-31)
What did the rich man see from his place in hell? (16:23)
How did Abraham respond to the request of the rich man? (16:25)
Why did the rich man want Lazarus to go to his father's house on earth? (16:27-28)
What did the rich man think was necessary to convince his brothers to believe? (16:30)

Reflect:
How does this story affect your understanding of the afterlife?
What have you learned from this parable about the eternal value of material possessions?
What things do you think have eternal value?

Discuss:
In the message we explored why hell exists; what hell is like; and who is in hell.
Why doesn’t Satan want you to take hell seriously?
Why does Jesus want you to take hell seriously?
What difference does a biblical understanding of hell make in the life of the Christ follower?


Apply:
In the next few days, how can you demonstrate your thankfulness to the Lord for His provision of eternal life?

How many people like Lazarus do you know who could benefit from your compassion today?