Bible moment
The Bible moment
In Luke 16:19–31, Jesus tells about an unnamed rich man and Lazarus, a poor man who lies at the rich man’s gate longing for food. After both die, Lazarus is carried to Abraham’s side, while the rich man is in Hades. A great chasm separates them. The rich man asks Abraham to send Lazarus to warn his five brothers. Abraham replies that they have Moses and the Prophets and should listen to them. The story emphasizes responding to God’s revealed teaching, including its call toward compassion and justice. It does not name or describe the brothers, and it does not explain their lives. Jesus closes the story by showing that people who will not listen to Moses and the Prophets will not be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead.
Look closely
What children can notice
The rich man gestures toward a simple representation of his five brothers, while Abraham indicates scrolls representing Moses and the Prophets. The brothers remain unnamed and undescribed, keeping the emphasis on listening and acting on known teaching.
Talk together
Talk about it
- What does Abraham say the brothers should listen to?
- How can we respond compassionately to someone in need?
For families, church, and class
Use this page
For older children, read Luke 16:27–29 in context and explain that the brothers are unnamed and undescribed. Invite children to notice the story’s call to listen and act, especially when people are suffering. Discuss compassion without using frightening or graphic details about death or Hades. This concept works for Sunday school, family devotion, or classroom reflection.
Source note
From this passage
Luke 16:27-29 · The Rich Man and Lazarus
The rich man gestures toward a simple representation of his five brothers, while Abraham indicates scrolls representing Moses and the Prophets. The brothers remain unnamed and undescribed, keeping the emphasis on listening and acting on known teaching.
