The Art of Dying Well by Robert Bellarmine
Robert Bellarmine wrote a short book called “The Art of Dying Well” in 1619. It tries to help people prepare for their own death. Here is our study of the book.
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What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?
Many Christians equate monetary success with godliness. But the Lord Jesus asks: “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?”
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Whatever they do shall Prosper
In the Old Testament era, prospering was not seen as a result of our own vigor, but rather upon the blessing of the LORD God.
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Collateral for a Loan
A debtor could offer their outer garment as collateral. However, the lender had to return the garment at night. Failing to return such a garment was a sin.
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Setting Slaves Free
Slavery was a reality of the ancient world. But it was not to be perpetual. The Hebrew people were commanded to set their slaves free in the seventh year.
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Why was Sodom destroyed?
What was the sin of Sodom? Why was destroyed? Many people assume it was due to homosexual activity. However, the Bible provides a different answer.
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Serving both God and Money
The Lord Jesus presents us with an either-or decision. We Christians can serve God. OR we can serve money. We cannot serve both.
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Sell what you have and give to the Needy
The Lord Jesus calls us to sell our possessions and give the money to poor people. When we do this we are building up for ourselves treasures in heaven.
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A woman anoints Jesus with pure nard
A woman poured costly perfume on Jesus Christ. It was her way of repenting. The Lord Jesus forgave her. This is not Mary the sister of Martha and Lazarus.
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You have made it a den of robbers!
The temple existed for the worship of the LORD God. But the religious leaders turned it into a money-maker for themselves. This was an abuse of their authority.