Introduction:
The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus is a poignant narrative found in the Gospel of Luke, specifically in Luke 16:19-31. This parable is unique to Luke's Gospel and serves as a powerful teaching on the themes of wealth, poverty, justice, and the afterlife. It is a vivid illustration used by Jesus to convey spiritual truths about the consequences of earthly actions and the reality of eternal destinies.

Context:
The parable is situated within a series of teachings by Jesus that address the use of wealth and the attitudes of the heart. Preceding this parable, Jesus speaks on the shrewd manager and the impossibility of serving both God and money (Luke 16:1-13). The Pharisees, who are described as lovers of money, ridicule Jesus, prompting Him to deliver this parable (Luke 16:14-15).

Narrative Summary:
The parable contrasts two characters: a rich man and a poor man named Lazarus. The rich man is described as living in luxury, "dressed in purple and fine linen and living in luxury every day" (Luke 16:19). In stark contrast, Lazarus is a destitute beggar, covered in sores, who longs to eat the scraps that fall from the rich man's table (Luke 16:20-21).

Upon their deaths, the roles of the two men are dramatically reversed. Lazarus is carried by angels to Abraham's side, a place of comfort and rest, while the rich man finds himself in Hades, tormented and in agony (Luke 16:22-23). The rich man, in his torment, pleads with Abraham to send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water to cool his tongue, but Abraham reminds him of the chasm fixed between them, preventing any passage (Luke 16:24-26).

The rich man then begs Abraham to send Lazarus to warn his five brothers so they might avoid his fate. Abraham responds that they have Moses and the Prophets to guide them, and if they do not listen to them, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead (Luke 16:27-31).

Theological Themes:

1. Reversal of Fortunes:
The parable highlights the reversal of fortunes in the afterlife, emphasizing that earthly wealth and status do not determine one's eternal destiny. The rich man's opulence and Lazarus's poverty are temporary, while their eternal states are permanent.

2. Justice and Mercy:
The narrative underscores God's justice and mercy. Lazarus, who suffered in life, is comforted in death, while the rich man, who ignored the needs of others, faces judgment. This serves as a warning to those who neglect the poor and marginalized.

3. The Sufficiency of Scripture:
Abraham's response to the rich man's request to warn his brothers underscores the sufficiency of Scripture. The Law and the Prophets provide ample guidance for righteous living, and a hardened heart will not be swayed even by miraculous signs.

4. The Reality of the Afterlife:
The parable affirms the reality of the afterlife, with distinct places of comfort and torment. It serves as a sobering reminder of the eternal consequences of one's choices and actions in this life.

Interpretation:
The parable is often interpreted as a critique of the Pharisees' attitudes towards wealth and their neglect of the needy. It challenges believers to examine their own lives, encouraging them to live with compassion and generosity, mindful of the eternal implications of their actions. The account of the rich man and Lazarus calls for a heart aligned with God's values, prioritizing love and justice over material wealth.