The Basics of Spiritual Success

Judgments based on outward appearance do not always guarantee accurate conclusions.  The rich man appeared to be successful while Lazarus appeared to be a failure, but the truth is that Lazarus was the success while the rich man was a spiritual failure.

I.  Spiritual failure of succes cannot be determined through judgments based on earthly standards.  (Luke 16:19-21)

     A.  Wealth is no sign of spiritual success.  (16:19)

     B.  Power is no sign of spiritual success.  (16:21)

     C.  Earthly pleasure is no sign of spiritual success.  (12:19; 16:19)

     D.  Illness is no sign of spiritual failure.  (16:20)

II.  Spiritual failure or success is based upon faith or a lack thereof.  (Gen. 15:6; Rom. 10:17; Heb. 11:6)

     A.  Faith is necessary for the beginning of spiritual life.  (Gen. 15:6; Rom. 10:17)

     B.  Faith is necessary for pleasing God.  (Heb. 11:6)

III.  Spiritual failure or success will lead to different destinies.  (Luke 16:22-26)

     A.  The person who never comes to faith in Jesus will know hell as opposed to heaven.

     B.  The person who comes to faith will know heaven as his reward.

          The one who comes to faith but fails to follow Christ faithfully will lose rewards.

IV.  Spiritual failure or success is determined in this life.  (Luke 16:27-31)