Luke 16: Expository Bible Preaching and Study Guide

Overview

Luke 16 contains two primary sections: the Parable of the Dishonest Manager (vv. 1-13) and the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus (vv. 19-31), with a short interlude addressing the Pharisees and teaching on the Law, divorce, and the permanence of God’s Word (vv. 14-18). This chapter teaches critical truths about stewardship, eternal accountability, and the irreversible consequences of one’s spiritual condition after death.

Luke 16 confronts both materialism and spiritual arrogance. It warns against the deceitfulness of riches, the dangers of unfaithfulness, and the eternal cost of rejecting God’s revelation. Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for loving money while claiming to honor the Law. He presses the urgency of responding rightly to God’s Word while there is still time. This chapter is rich in theology regarding the afterlife, stewardship, judgment, and the sufficiency of Scripture.

Historical and Literary Context

Historical Context

Luke writes his Gospel around 60 A.D. to Theophilus, aiming to present an orderly and accurate account of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ (Luke 1:1-4). By chapter 16, Jesus is well into His journey toward Jerusalem (Luke 9:51), teaching with increasing intensity about the Kingdom of God, true discipleship, and the coming judgment.

The audience includes His disciples (v. 1), but the Pharisees (v. 14) are also listening. The religious leaders of the time prided themselves on external righteousness, adherence to the Law, and social status. Wealth was seen by many as a sign of divine blessing, and Jesus‘ radical teachings about eternal priorities challenged that assumption.

Literary Context

Luke 16 is part of a broader literary unit (Luke 14-17) that centers on discipleship, parables, and teachings concerning the Kingdom of God. Jesus uses stories (parables) to draw moral and spiritual contrasts: earthly riches vs. eternal reward, temporary power vs. eternal consequence, and false religiosity vs. true righteousness.

The parables are not allegories but are rooted in real-life imagery to communicate divine truth. Jesus frequently used storytelling to pierce hardened hearts and to reveal deeper kingdom principles. The vivid narrative of the Rich Man and Lazarus particularly serves as a sobering and literal teaching about heaven, hell, and the finality of judgment.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. Faithful Stewardship of Earthly Resources (vv. 1-13)

Theme: Stewardship is a test of character and faithfulness. Earthly wealth is a temporary trust from God, not a source of security.
Doctrinal Insight: Jesus teaches that how a person manages “little” (earthly money) reflects their readiness to be entrusted with “much” (eternal reward). True riches are spiritual, not material.
Evangelical Application: Believers are called to be faithful stewards, using money for eternal purposes. Greed and compromise disqualify one from being useful in God’s kingdom work.

“No one can serve two masters…” (v. 13) – This verse underscores the exclusivity of devotion: one cannot love God and money simultaneously.

2. The Immutable Authority of God’s Word (vv. 14-17)

Theme: God’s Word is eternally binding and exposes the hearts of people.
Doctrinal Insight: Jesus affirms the permanence and authority of the Law. The Law is not abolished but fulfilled in Him (cf. Matthew 5:17-18).
Evangelical Application: Scripture is not subject to the opinions or traditions of men. Evangelicals must teach and live by the whole counsel of God, not cherry-picking parts of Scripture.

“It is easier for heaven and earth to disappear than for the least stroke of a pen to drop out of the Law.” (v. 17) – This affirms the inerrancy and unchanging nature of Scripture.

3. The Reality and Finality of Eternal Judgment (vv. 19-31)

Theme: There is an eternal separation after death between the righteous and the wicked. Hell is real, conscious, and irreversible.
Doctrinal Insight: The parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus teaches not only about heaven and hell but also the sufficiency of Scripture for salvation. The dead cannot return to warn the living; the living must believe Moses and the Prophets.
Evangelical Application: This supports the doctrine of sola Scriptura – Scripture alone is sufficient for saving faith. The urgency of repentance is real because death seals one’s eternal fate.

“If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.” (v. 31) – A clear anticipation of Christ’s resurrection and a rebuke to those who reject the Word.

4. God’s Sovereignty in Justice and Reward

Theme: God is the righteous Judge who gives according to His divine justice. Earthly status does not influence God’s eternal decisions.
Doctrinal Insight: This parable reflects God’s sovereignty in electing and rewarding. The poor man (Lazarus) is not saved because of poverty, but because of faith; the rich man is not condemned for being rich, but for rejecting God.
Evangelical Application: Evangelicals affirm that salvation is by grace through faith, and that God sovereignly rules over all destinies. Earthly blessings do not equal eternal favor.

5. The Great Reversal: God’s Kingdom Values

Theme: In the Kingdom of God, the last will be first and the first last (cf. Luke 13:30).
Doctrinal Insight: The Gospel reverses worldly expectations. Those despised by the world may be honored in eternity.
Evangelical Application: Preaching should confront cultural assumptions of success and call believers to live in light of eternity.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis: Luke 16 (NIV)

Verses 1-13: The Parable of the Dishonest Manager

1 – “Jesus told his disciples: ‘There was a rich man whose manager was accused of wasting his possessions.’”

Explanation: Jesus begins with a parable addressed to His disciples, not the crowds. The manager is charged with mismanaging the master’s wealth—reflecting stewardship accountability.
Cross-Reference: Luke 12:42-46 – Another parable of a manager emphasizes faithful service.
Application: We are stewards of what God owns. All our possessions ultimately belong to Him.

8 – “The master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly.”

Explanation: The commendation is for the manager’s shrewdness, not dishonesty. Jesus uses a worldly example to challenge His followers: unbelievers often act with more urgency than believers.
Doctrinal Insight: Wisdom and urgency should mark Christian stewardship (Eph. 5:15-16).
Application: Christians should use worldly resources to make an eternal impact.

13 – “No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve both God and money.”

Explanation: Divided loyalty is impossible. A heart enslaved by materialism cannot simultaneously submit to God.
Cross-Reference: Matthew 6:24 – The same truth is taught in the Sermon on the Mount.
Application: Believers must examine their affections. Are they kingdom-minded or worldly-minded?

Verses 14-18: Rebuke of the Pharisees and Affirmation of the Law

14 – “The Pharisees, who loved money, heard all this and were sneering at Jesus.”

Explanation: Their ridicule reveals their true allegiance—money, not God.
Application: Mocking the truth often stems from conviction. Let God’s Word reveal idols.

17 – “It is easier for heaven and earth to disappear than for the least stroke of a pen to drop out of the Law.”

Explanation: Jesus affirms the enduring authority of Scripture.
Doctrinal Insight: This supports the doctrine of biblical inerrancy and sufficiency.
Cross-Reference: Psalm 119:89 – “Your word, LORD, is eternal.”
Application: We must uphold and teach the full counsel of Scripture, even when it confronts culture.

Verse 18: Teaching on Divorce

18 – “Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery…”

Explanation: Jesus upholds the sanctity of marriage in a culture of easy divorce.
Cross-Reference: Matthew 19:3-9 – Jesus clarifies that marriage is a creation ordinance, not a cultural contract.
Doctrinal Insight: Reflects the permanence of God’s design for marriage.
Application: Churches must teach a biblical view of marriage—lifelong, covenantal, and sacred.

Verses 19-31: The Rich Man and Lazarus

22 – “The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side…”

Explanation: At death, the righteous are welcomed into paradise. “Abraham’s side” represents a place of comfort and fellowship with God’s people.
Cross-Reference: 2 Corinthians 5:8 – To be “away from the body” is to be “at home with the Lord.”
Application: Death is not the end. Believers can have assurance of eternal life with God.

23 – “In Hades, where he was in torment…”

Explanation: The rich man experiences conscious, irreversible torment—this is a real warning about hell.
Doctrinal Insight: Hell is not symbolic or temporary. It’s real, conscious, and eternal.
Cross-Reference: Revelation 20:14-15 – the “lake of fire” is the final judgment for the unrepentant.

26 – “…a great chasm has been set in place…”

Explanation: There is no second chance after death. Eternity is fixed based on our response to God’s revelation in this life.
Application: We must call people to repent now. Delay is dangerous.

31 – “If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.”

Explanation: God’s Word is sufficient. Unbelief is not cured by miracles but by repentance and faith.
Doctrinal Insight: Scripture alone (sola Scriptura) is the means through which God saves.
Cross-Reference: John 5:46-47 – Jesus says, “If you believed Moses, you would believe me.”
Application: Preach the Word faithfully—it is enough to bring people to Christ.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus as the Fulfillment of the Law

Jesus affirms the permanence of the Law (v. 17), but He is also the fulfillment of it (Matthew 5:17). He does not abolish the Law, but reveals its true intent—calling for heart-level righteousness.
Christ’s life, death, and resurrection fulfill the demands of the Law so that sinners can be justified by faith (Romans 3:21-26).

2. Jesus and the Rich Man/Lazarus Parable

The parable closes with a reference to resurrection (v. 31), pointing directly to Jesus‘ own resurrection. Even though He would rise from the dead, many would still refuse to believe—just as the rich man’s brothers would.
Christ is the only way to escape judgment (John 14:6). He bore the penalty of hell on the cross for all who believe.

3. Jesus as the True and Faithful Steward

Where the dishonest manager failed, Jesus succeeded. He was the perfectly faithful steward of the Father’s will (John 17:4). He used all resources and moments to accomplish eternal good—culminating in His atoning work on the cross.

Connection to God the Father

1. The Father as Sovereign Judge

God the Father is the one who establishes the moral law and enforces eternal judgment. The “great chasm” in v. 26 is fixed by the Father’s justice—His verdict is final.
He is the one to whom all stewardship must give an account (Romans 14:12).

2. The Father as the Source of Revelation

In v. 29, Moses and the Prophets are mentioned as the sufficient revelation—given by the Father to lead people to faith.
Jesus later affirms in John 6:45 that all who are taught by the Father come to Him.

3. The Father’s Desire for Compassion and Justice

Lazarus being comforted at Abraham’s side reflects God’s concern for the humble, suffering believer. His justice is revealed in how He lifts the humble and brings down the proud (Luke 1:52).
God does not delight in the death of the wicked (Ezekiel 33:11), but His justice cannot be ignored.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

Although Luke 16 does not mention the Holy Spirit explicitly, the chapter’s truths deeply connect to the Spirit’s ongoing ministry in the life of believers:

1. The Spirit Illuminates the Word

Jesus teaches that Moses and the Prophets (v. 29) are sufficient for leading people to faith. The Holy Spirit is the one who opens hearts and minds to understand and respond to that Word (John 14:26; 1 Corinthians 2:12-14).
The rejection of the Word is ultimately a rejection of the Spirit who inspired it (2 Peter 1:21).

2. The Spirit Empowers Faithful Stewardship

Believers are stewards of God’s grace and resources. The Spirit gives wisdom (James 1:5) and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23), enabling us to use wealth for God’s glory rather than selfish gain.
The dishonest manager lacked integrity, but the Spirit produces character that is faithful in little and much (Luke 16:10; cf. Titus 2:11-12).

3. The Spirit Warns and Convicts of Eternal Realities

The story of the rich man and Lazarus is a sobering reminder of judgment. The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8).
Without the Spirit’s work, hearts remain hard—even when faced with resurrection truth (v. 31).

Sermon Outline and Flow

Sermon Title: “Eternity, Stewardship, and the Word of God”

Text: Luke 16:1-31

I. Be a Faithful Steward Today (vv. 1-13)

Main Idea: How you handle temporary resources reveals your heart toward God.

Explanation: The dishonest manager used resources to prepare for the future. Believers must use money for eternal purposes.
Key Verse: v. 13 – “You cannot serve both God and money.”
Application: Are you investing in the kingdom? Are you generous, or does money control you?

Illustration: A missionary who was once a successful businessman shared, “Only what’s done for Christ will last. I don’t regret a single dollar spent on the gospel.”

II. Honor God’s Word without Compromise (vv. 14-18)

Main Idea: God’s Word cannot be changed or ignored, no matter how people feel about it.

Explanation: The Pharisees ridiculed Jesus because they loved money. Jesus responds by affirming the authority of Scripture.
Key Verse: v. 17 – “It is easier for heaven and earth to disappear than for the least stroke of a pen to drop out of the Law.”
Application: Are you submitting to Scripture—even when it’s hard—or twisting it to fit your preferences?

Illustration: Think of a GPS. If you ignore its instructions, you’ll get lost. God’s Word is our moral and spiritual GPS—ignoring it leads to destruction.

III. Remember: Eternal Consequences Are Real (vv. 19-31)

Main Idea: After death, your eternal destiny is fixed. There is no second chance.

Explanation: The rich man had everything in life but was tormented in eternity. Lazarus, who suffered in life, was comforted in paradise. Their roles are reversed forever.
Key Verse: v. 31 – “If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.”
Application: What are you trusting in—comfort now, or Christ for eternity?

Illustration: Imagine boarding a plane with the wrong ticket—thinking you’re headed to paradise but landing in destruction. The Bible is your ticket to truth; don’t ignore it.

Conclusion: Call to Action

Challenge: Will you live for temporary gain or eternal glory?
Exhortation: Use your wealth wisely. Submit to God’s Word fully. Don’t wait to get right with God—your eternity depends on it.
Call to Faith: Trust in the One who did rise from the dead—Jesus Christ, the only way to heaven. Today is the day of salvation.

Illustrations and Examples

1. Modern Financial Stewardship

A Christian entrepreneur donates 10% of every profit to missions and builds local churches in rural areas. His view: “Money is a tool, not a trophy.”
→ Relevance: Luke 16 calls believers to eternal investment.

2. Scripture Rejection in a Modern World

A university student once said, “If God would just show me a sign, I’d believe.” But he ignored the Bible in his drawer.
→ Point: God has already spoken. The issue is not lack of evidence, but hard-heartedness (Luke 16:31).

3. The Finality of Death

A chaplain once told of a man on his deathbed who said, “I wish I had listened to the gospel when I was strong. Now it’s too late.”
→ Connection: The “great chasm” of Luke 16:26 is a real warning.

Application for Today’s Christian

Luke 16 provides serious and practical instructions for followers of Christ in everyday life. Jesus’ teaching presses on how believers think about discipleship, stewardship, and their eternal priorities.

1. Live as a Faithful Steward of All God Entrusts

Practical Step: Evaluate how you spend and give your money. Are you investing in God’s kingdom through your local church, missions, and care for the poor?
Discipleship Tip: Keep a budget not just for expenses but for eternal investment. Give intentionally and joyfully (2 Cor. 9:7).
Example: Support a missionary, sponsor a child in need, or fund Bibles for unreached regions.

2. Prioritize the Eternal Over the Temporary

Practical Step: Set your mind on eternal things (Colossians 3:1-2). Don’t let comfort or luxury dull your spiritual hunger.
Faithful Living: Spend time daily in God’s Word and prayer. Let eternal realities inform how you spend time, money, and energy.

3. Submit to the Authority of God’s Word

Practical Step: Read and apply Scripture as your ultimate guide, not cultural opinions or emotions.
Discipleship Tip: Join a small group Bible study. Practice accountability with other believers to live out God’s commands.

4. Share the Gospel Urgently

Practical Step: Share your faith with family and friends, knowing they won’t have another chance after death.
Evangelism: Use the reality of eternity as motivation to witness boldly. Jesus rose from the dead—His resurrection is proof enough (v. 31).

Connection to God’s Love

Though Luke 16 contains strong warnings about judgment, it is also a display of God’s compassionate love, particularly in how:

1. God Warns Because He Loves

Jesus tells this sobering story not to frighten but to awaken His hearers. God does not desire that any should perish (2 Peter 3:9).
The warning to turn before it’s too late reflects the Father’s desire to save (Ezekiel 18:32).

2. God Reveals Truth Clearly in His Word

God lovingly provides Scripture as a sufficient and accessible guide to salvation (v. 29). He doesn’t hide the path to life—He illuminates it.
The mention of resurrection (v. 31) points to the greatest act of love: Christ’s sacrificial death and victorious resurrection for sinners.

3. God Sees and Cares for the Lowly

Lazarus, though forgotten by the world, is seen and comforted by God. God’s love lifts up the broken and brings justice to the overlooked (Psalm 113:7-8).

Broader Biblical Themes

Luke 16 does not stand alone—it contributes powerfully to the overarching message of Scripture. Here’s how it fits within key biblical themes:

1. Creation and Stewardship

Humanity was created to rule and manage God’s creation (Genesis 1:28). Stewardship is part of the creation mandate.
Luke 16 reinforces this by showing that how we handle resources reflects our faith and character.

2. Covenant and Scripture

The reference to “Moses and the Prophets” (v. 29) connects to the covenant God made with His people, revealed in His Word.
Jesus affirms that Scripture is the covenantal witness that must be heard, believed, and obeyed.

3. Redemption and Judgment

The Rich Man and Lazarus parable reminds us of the eternal consequences of rejecting God’s offer of salvation. There is no purgatory, no second chance.
At the same time, redemption is available now—through Christ, who would indeed rise from the dead (v. 31). He is the fulfillment of every redemptive promise (Luke 24:27).

4. The Kingdom of God

This chapter is about kingdom values: faithfulness, humility, generosity, and eternal focus.
The reversal between Lazarus and the rich man pictures the great reversal at the heart of God’s kingdom—where the last are first and the first are last (Luke 13:30; Luke 14:11).

Reflection Questions: Luke 16

Use the following questions to help individuals or small groups reflect deeply on Luke 16. These questions aim to bring out personal conviction, biblical understanding, and Spirit-led application.

1. What does the Parable of the Dishonest Manager teach you about how you use money and resources?

Are you intentionally using what you have for eternal purposes?
What specific changes can you make this week in your spending, giving, or budgeting that reflect faithfulness to God?

2. In what ways can a love for money become a spiritual danger—even for believers?

How do you recognize the signs of materialism in your own life?
What helps you keep your heart fixed on Christ instead of temporary wealth?

3. Jesus said, “You cannot serve both God and money” (v. 13). Who—or what—has your full allegiance?

Where do your thoughts, time, and resources go most frequently?
What does that say about your priorities?

4. How seriously do you take the authority of Scripture in your daily decisions?

When facing a hard truth in the Bible, are you tempted to explain it away or obey it fully?
What Scripture passages are you struggling to accept or apply right now?

5. What warnings do you see in the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus?

How does this story challenge the way you think about life, eternity, and justice?
Do you feel urgency to share the gospel with those who haven’t trusted Christ?

6. Do you truly believe that God’s Word is enough to lead someone to salvation?

In what ways can you trust and use the Bible more boldly in your evangelism?
How might this affect the way you talk to unbelieving friends and family?

7. What comforts or challenges do you find in God’s care for Lazarus, the poor and forgotten man?

How does this shape your view of God’s love and justice?
Are there people around you that God is calling you to notice, help, or encourage?

8. If today were your last day, what legacy would you leave behind—spiritually, financially, and relationally?

What changes do you need to make to prepare for eternity?
How can you live more intentionally for Christ?