There Is No Returning

In the parables of the prodigal (or lost) son in Luke 15:11-32, and the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31, we see a great contrast and a sobering lesson. While he was living here upon the earth, the prodigal had the opportunity to return to his father (Luke 15:18,20), whereas when the rich man died and departed this earthly realm, he no longer had the opportunity to return (Luke 16:27-31).

While we are residents of this earthly realm, we have opportunity after opportunity to repent and return to our Father, doing His will (Luke 13:3,5; Acts 17:30-31; Luke 15:17-20; Matthew 7:21). However, once we leave this earthly realm (Philippians 1:23; 2 Timothy 4:6), that opportunity will no longer exist (Ecclesiastes 9:4-6). There is no returning.

The door of opportunity to be obedient to our Lord, is now open to all those who are willing to “open the door” (Revelation 3:20 KJV). However, once the door of opportunity is shut, no one can again open it (Genesis 7:16; Matthew 25:10; Luke 13:24-25). There is no returning.

A sobering lesson indeed. Therefore, in order for us to not end up in a place of punishment as the rich man found himself in, we need to willingly follow the admonition Paul gave to Timothy, when he instructed him to:

“Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you” (1 Timothy 4:16; cf. Romans 6:16-17).

An ending thought: It is interesting to note that the reply of Abraham to the rich man regarding his brothers, still holds true today (Luke 16:27-30). If folks will not heed the inspired teachings of Moses, the prophets, and the apostles, they would not “be persuaded though one rise from the dead” (Luke 16:31).

Remember dear reader, there is no returning.

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets