Luke 16 (The rich man and Lazarus) Flashcards
Context
In this parable, Jesus contrasts the lives of a rich man and a poor beggar named Lazarus. The rich man lives in luxury while Lazarus suffers outside his gate. When they both die, Lazarus is taken to heaven, while the rich man is condemned to hell. The rich man, suffering in torment, pleads for Lazarus to be sent to warn his family, but Abraham responds that they already have the Scriptures to guide them.
1.A Call to Compassion and Generosity
The rich man’s failure to help Lazarus, who was right outside his gate, illustrates a deep lack of compassion. As a Christian, this calls you to be aware of the needs around you, especially those who are poor, suffering, or marginalized. Jesus taught that by helping those in need, you are helping Him (Matthew 25:40). Your material blessings, talents, and resources should be used not just for your own comfort, but to bless others. The parable is a reminder that wealth and comfort are temporary, and how you use what you have to serve others is of eternal significance.
2.Living With an Eternal Perspective
This parable emphasizes the reality of life after death. The rich man’s fate is sealed after his life on earth, and there is no second chance for him to make things right. As a Christian, this should encourage you to live each day with the eternal perspective in mind. Your actions, attitudes, and priorities here on earth have lasting consequences. You are not just living for today, but for eternity. Every choice you make, whether it’s showing kindness, generosity, or love to others, matters in light of God’s kingdom.
3.Repentance and Obedience to God’s Word
The rich man’s plea to send Lazarus back to warn his family highlights the importance of listening to God’s Word. Abraham’s response—“they have Moses and the Prophets”—reminds you that God has already given you everything you need to live righteously through the Bible. If you want to avoid the rich man’s fate, it’s not enough to just hear the Word; you must live by it. Repentance, living in obedience to God’s Word, and actively seeking to grow closer to Him is what will keep you on the path to eternal life.
4.Urgency in Living for God
The rich man’s regret comes too late. His desire to help his family avoid his fate reflects his realization that time is precious. As a Christian, you are called to act now, to make every moment count for God’s kingdom. Don’t wait for tomorrow to be more generous, compassionate, or obedient. The parable urges you to live with urgency in your faith, to make decisions today that will reflect God’s heart for the poor, the needy, and those far from Him.
5.Warning Against Materialism
The parable also teaches the dangers of placing too much value on wealth and luxury. The rich man’s lifestyle was built on selfishness and self-indulgence. As a Christian, this passage serves as a warning against materialism. While it’s not wrong to have wealth, it is wrong to hoard it or live for your own comfort at the expense of others. Money should never become your idol or define your worth. Instead, it should be seen as a tool for God’s purposes, to further His kingdom and bless others.
