The Heart of a Missionary
What Motivates Us? – Part 1

Scripture Reading:  Luke 16:19-26

Key Verse: Luke 16:23

In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side.

As we look at the heart of a missionary, it surely begs the question: Why?  Why would the Apostle Paul willingly go through all the trouble and pain just to see “some saved”?  Today’s story is at the heart of the answer.  It is not the only answer, but it is a key factor.  That answer is the reality of hell.  We believers do what we do in this area of evangelism because we believe all of Jesus’ teachings, which include hell.

            Our story, from Jesus’ own lips, first tells us that there will be no partying in hell.  It is a place of torment.  The rich man went to hell, not because he was rich but because his heart was hardened by sin and selfishness.  After he died, Jesus said he opened his eyes in a place of torment.  Whenever you hear some suggest that they will join their buddies in hell for a big party, be sure and remind them of this eternal truth: hell is pure torment.

            The second fact about hell is the inhabitants maintain their sense of desire.  The rich man, according to verse twenty-four, pleaded for a simple drop of water from someone dipping their finger in water and placing it on his tongue.  We all receive a new body when we die, which is made for eternity.  Unfortunately, for those who go to hell, this body will not die and will continue to have needs that will go unmet.  (Continued)

Father, help me to never forget the realities of both heaven and hell.  Grant me great compassion for lost people.  In Jesus’ name, amen.