In this episode of Focused on Christ, Mike Crump and Pastor Nathan Smith dive deep into Jesus’ story of the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke [16:19]–31). Is this account a parable or an actual historical event? What does it reveal about heaven, hell, eternity, and the sufficiency of God’s Word?
We unpack:
-
Why most scholars view this as a parable.
-
The meaning of Abraham’s side and the Jewish understanding of life after death.
-
The selfishness of the rich man’s cries from Hades.
-
The eternal chasm between life and death.
-
Why miracles—even resurrection—cannot replace the authority of Scripture.
-
How this story points us to repentance, faith in Christ, and eternal perspective.
This conversation reminds us that God’s Word is enough and challenges us to consider what truly matters: not temporary comfort, but eternal life in Christ.
Key Scripture: Luke [16:19]–31 | Psalm 73 | Matthew [8:34]–36
Discussion Questions:
- What do you think is the main point Jesus was trying to make with this parable?
- How does this parable challenge our perspective on wealth and comfort in this life?
- The rich man asks Abraham to send Lazarus to warn his brothers. Why does Abraham say this wouldn’t help?
- In what ways might we be tempted to look for ‘signs and wonders’ instead of trusting God’s Word?
- How does this parable address the question of whether people can move between heaven and hell after death?
- What does the rich man’s continued selfishness even in torment reveal about the nature of sin and repentance?
- How might this parable comfort believers who are suffering while seeing others prosper?
- What does this parable teach us about the sufficiency of Scripture for salvation and guidance?