Who Is Your God?
2026-06-04
A Catechism Sermon on Luke 16:19-31 for the 1st Commandment
“A god means that from which we are to expect all good and to which we are to take refuge in all distress” (Large Catechism I, 1). Consider: Who or what were the gods of the two men? God does not judge like mankind does. People judge others by status, wealth, and temporal markers. The names of the rich and famous are known. They are admired, listened to, followed, because obviously he’s doing something right if he drives that car, owns that house, throws those parties, or is in a relationship with that woman. Meanwhile, the poor and destitute are overlooked, ignored, and passed by. Obviously, they did something wrong—drugs, alcohol, gambling—and no one cares to learn their names. They live in tents under the bridge or in their car in the park. But God cares little about man’s judgments. When poor Lazarus died, he died trusting in God. He was received by God into eternal life. Meanwhile, the rich man died, trusting in his wealth. He was cast into eternal torment. Conversing with Abraham, the rich man learns the truth: Where the heart’s confidence is placed in this life determines where one spends the life to come. The rich man had loved his wealth, been satisfied with earthly comforts, and trusted in his gold. He ignored the saving Word of God. He had everything except the true God, which was all that mattered when he died. He was cast into Hell. Lazarus, on the other hand, had listened to Moses and the Prophets. Despite his circumstances, he trusted God. He was treated as scum by men on earth, but is received as God’s honored guest. Abraham offers a stern warning today: “They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them” (Luke 16:29). Listen then to God’s Word. In Holy Scripture, God reveals Himself to you. Neglecting God’s Word to gain or maintain temporal goods means eternal damnation. To hear and meditate upon God’s Word is eternal life and salvation. Lazarus, while lacking every earthly goods, had the true God, which was all that mattered when he died. The Holy Scriptures reveal the true God. Faith in Him is given through hearing His Word (Romans 10:17). In the Scriptures, God promises and reveals to us of His Gospel of grace: His unmerited favor, given to us on account of Christ’s righteous life and atoning death. The rich man’s name has faded away. In his life, everyone knew him. Now, none do. He has faded from memory. But Lazarus is remembered by God. In his life, no one knew his name but God. Now, he is known and loved forevermore. Let us pray: O Lord Jesus Christ, by Your Word and Sacraments, give us and sustain us in the fear, love, and trust in You which, in this First Commandment, You require, that we may dwell forever with You; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
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