Gathering 168: Choose: God or Money // "Disparity"

Beatitudes Radio

Economic disparity in the United States has increased by 20% in the last 30-40 years. However, this distinction between the “haves” and the “have nots” is not something new. In fact, unequal distribution of income and opportunity between different groups in society has been around for centuries and was just as prevalent in Jesus’ time as it is today. So much so that Jesus told a parable about it as related in Luke 16: 19-31: The Rich Man and Lazarus. Join Pastor Tony today as he explores Jesus' parable of a reversal of fates. When Lazarus, a poor beggar, dies alongside a rich man, who inherits the better fate? Will Lazarus heed the rich man's request and rescue him from eternal torment? Our tendency is to take the easy way out and moralize the parable making it about good versus evil. But what if we were to just sit with the parable and look at it purely objectively? What does this parable say about our life choices today? In a culture of instant gratification and avarice, discover the uncomfortable and hard truths that are revealed when we just sit with Jesus’ parable and ponder the ways in which we can make a difference today and live a life well. Which would you choose: God or money? Recorded live at Beatitudes Church in Phoenix, AZ on 01/29/21 Preaching: Rev. Tony Minear, Ph.D. Scripture Reader: Janelle Tapphorn Scripture Reference: Luke 16:19-31 If you like what you hear, consider donating at: https://www.beatitudeschurch.org/online-giving