Lazarus and the Rich Man

Rev. Dr. Jeff Dukeman, pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Gulfport, MS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Luke 16:19-31.

Jesus continues to seek after the lost Pharisees by using the illustration of Lazarus and the rich man. Though Lazarus is poor in this life, he is known to God by name, and his faith results in the riches of eternal life. The fact that the angels carry Lazarus to Abraham’s side at death brings comfort to Christians as we face death. Though the rich man has all he wants in this life, he is unknown to God by name, and his unbelief results in the poverty of hell. Here Jesus portrays the great reversal that happens in the kingdom of God. The one who was sure his heritage or deeds would keep him in the kingdom found out that he was actually outside. The truth for salvation is found in the Word of God; those who would be saved must listen to God in His Word and nowhere else.

“The Beloved Physician’s Orderly Account” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Gospel according to St. Luke. The Evangelist wrote his well-researched account of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection so that Theophilus would have certainty concerning the things he had been taught. As we still read the Word of God recorded by St. Luke, our gracious Lord gives us that same certainty that Jesus is our Savior.