INTRODUCTION

The story of the rich man and Lazarus is a popular one that describes how our love for material things and comfort can either make or mar our relationship with God and fellow human beings. It also deals with our response to God, whether in wealth or poverty, and how this response affects our understanding about God and eternity. Today’s passage focuses on the type of life that Lazarus and the rich man lived before they died and their experiences after death.

THE LESSON EXPLAINED

A. The Rich Man and Lazarus on Earth (Luke 16:19-21)
The rich man refused to use even a little of his riches to help the poor man – Lazarus. The man was truly rich and comfortable. In contrast, Lazarus was a beggar who suffered from poor health and hunger thus he always sat at the gate of the rich man waiting for an opportunity to eat the crumbs from his table. Unfortunately for Lazarus, the crumbs became food for dogs. Instead of the rich man to use his God – given resources to bless the poor, he was indifferent.

DISCUSSION TIME

1. What are the ways some individuals use their wealth today that is similar to that of the rich man in the story?

B. The Rich Man’s Request (Luke 16:27-31)
From the passage, we can see that the rich man, when he found himself in hell, regretted his indifference to the plight of Lazarus and failure to prepare for eternity in heaven while on earth. Therefore, the challenge from the lesson is that believers should respond with compassion to the needs of the poor in their churches, families and communities and be ready to live by the truth and standard of God’s Word. We should emulate the early church in which the brethren were together and had everything in common.

DISCUSSION TIME

1. Discuss how believers can save the soul of their loved ones and others like the rich man desired in today’s passage.

Points to Note from the Lesson
* Christians should be able to manage their wealth in ways that demonstrate their faith.
* It is our responsibility to care for the sick and poor, as Christians.

Memory Verse:

"But Abraham replied, `Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. (Luke 16:25).