The story of the Rich Man and Lazarus is found in Gospel of Luke 16:19–31. It is one of Jesus’ most powerful teachings about eternity, wealth, and the condition of the human heart.

In the story, a rich man lived in luxury every day, dressed in fine clothes, and enjoyed a life of comfort.

At his gate lay a poor beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores and longing for crumbs from the rich man’s table.

Eventually, both men died. Lazarus was carried to Abraham’s side (a picture of heaven), while the rich man found himself in torment.

Was It Because One Was Rich and the Other Was Poor?

No. The Bible does not teach that wealth automatically sends someone to hell, nor does poverty automatically guarantee heaven. Abraham himself was wealthy. The real issue was not money — it was the heart.

1. The Rich Man Ignored God and Compassion

The rich man showed no compassion toward Lazarus, who suffered daily at his gate. His wealth blinded him to the needs of others.

This reflected a deeper spiritual problem, a heart disconnected from God.

In 1 John 3:17, Scripture asks how God’s love can remain in someone who has material possessions but refuses to help those in need.

The rich man’s lifestyle revealed self-centeredness rather than faith.

2. Lazarus Trusted God in His Suffering

Though poor and afflicted, Lazarus’ name means “God is my help” This suggests dependence on God.

Despite hardship, he apparently maintained faith. His suffering did not separate him from God.

In Matthew 5:3, Jesus said, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” Being “poor in spirit” means recognizing your need for God.

3. The Rich Man Had No Repentance

After death, the rich man begged for relief, but he never expressed repentance. He wanted comfort without transformation.

Abraham reminded him that during his lifetime he received good things but ignored eternal matters.

This story also teaches that once life is over, the opportunity to choose God is over. Our decisions in this life carry eternal consequences.

The Core Message

The story is about priorities. The rich man lived for temporary pleasure. Lazarus lived in dependence on God. Wealth is not the problem, worshiping wealth is.

Jesus’ warning is clear:

What we do with our hearts, our resources, and our response to God determines our eternal destiny.

The question is not whether someone is rich or poor.

The real question is: Do we know God, trust Him, and reflect His love while we have the chance?