Jesus tells the story of a rich man and a poor man named Lazarus. This parable is not a condemnation of wealth, but a call to care for others—echoing the second of the two greatest commandments: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus emphasizes that there is no commandment greater than these. The story serves as a clear warning to live with eternity in mind, marked by compassion and true repentance.
I. Two people on Earth (Lk 16:19-22)
The rich man lived in luxury and high status, yet was blind to the needs at his own doorstep.
Lazarus, a poor man, was brought to the rich man’s gate, and he longed for mere crumbs. Dogs came and licked his sores. Lazarus was despised and ignored by society. What do our lives say about what we value? Do we notice the suffering around us, or live for ourselves? Jesus also spoke about the poor in Mark 14:7, ‘The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want…..’
II. Life after Death – Heaven and Hell
Verse 23 says that angels carried Lazarus to Abraham’s side in heaven, a place of comfort and honour. Lazarus had nothing on earth but was rich in faith.
The rich man also died and went to Hell, a place of torment, flame and regret. Now he has become a beggar—crying for relief. Earthly status doesn’t determine eternal destiny; faith and relationship with God do.
Verses 24–26 describe the reversal that takes place after death. The rich man is now in torment, while Lazarus is comforted. This reflects the theme from Luke 13:30, “The last shall be first.” The great chasm mentioned in the passage reveals a sobering truth that there are no second chances after death. Eternal destinies are fixed here while we are here on earth.
III. A Final Prayer and a Firm Reply (vv. 27–31)
The Rich Man had concern for his family, he wanted to send a missionary to warn them, but it was too late. He asked Abraham to send Lazarus back as a messenger. Abraham replied, “They have Moses and the Prophets…” (In other words, God’s Word is sufficient.) If people don’t believe Scripture, even a resurrection will not convince them to repent. God’s Word is powerful enough to lead people to repentance. The problem is not a lack of evidence, but the hardness of human heart.
Lessons from this passage:
Heaven and Hell are Real and we will have consciousness in both. These are our eternal destinations. We can choose now.
Wealth without compassion is dangerous and God holds us accountable.
Faith in God’s Word—not status, comfort, or family background—determines our eternity.
The Time to Repent is Now; after death, it’s too late.
Lazarus was poor but prepared; the rich man was wealthy but did not repent. Eternal destiny is not about what we have, but whom we know as Lord.
Are we living for temporary comfort or eternal security? Is our heart sensitive to God’s Word—or hardened? Mission is possible only when we are alive and not after death.