📖 Bible Passage (KJV) – Luke 16:19–31
¹⁹ There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:
²⁰ And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,
²¹ And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.
²² And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
²³ And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
²⁴ And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.
²⁵ But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
²⁶ And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.
²⁷ Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father’s house:
²⁸ For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.
²⁹ Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.
³⁰ And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.
³¹ And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.
✨ All Summed Up
This parable contrasts the lives and eternal fates of two men: a wealthy man who lived in luxury and a poor beggar, Lazarus, who suffered in this life. When they die, their roles reverse—Lazarus is comforted in heaven while the rich man suffers in torment. The rich man begs for relief and for Lazarus to warn his brothers, but Abraham tells him that those who ignore God’s Word will not be convinced, even if someone rises from the dead. The story serves as a stark warning about wealth, compassion, and the reality of eternal consequences.
⚡Key Takeaway
- Earthly riches do not guarantee eternal security – Wealth is temporary, but our choices impact eternity.
- Compassion matters – Ignoring the suffering of others leads to spiritual downfall.
- God’s Word is enough – Those who reject Scripture won’t be convinced by miracles.
- A great divide exists after death – Once judgment is set, it cannot be reversed.
- Repentance must happen in this life – There are no second chances beyond the grave.
💭 Reflect & Apply
This parable challenges us to consider how we treat others and where our true treasure lies. Are we using our blessings to help those in need, or are we living selfishly? Are we listening to God’s Word today, or are we waiting for a “sign” to take faith seriously? Jesus reminds us that now is the time to turn to God, love others, and live with eternity in mind. Let this story stir your heart to action—seek righteousness, show mercy, and invest in what truly lasts.
🙌 Pray, reflect, and act! Share this parable with a friend and reflect on how it speaks to your life today.
🔗 Explore more parables from the Gospels
🔗 Learn about mercy in our Bible Verses section
🔗 Read the Word of God the Christian Cowboy way