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 profound teaching on the themes of wealth, poverty, the afterlife, and the finality of one's earthly choices. It is often discussed in the context of Jesus' teachings on the proper use of wealth and the eternal consequences of one's actions.

Context:
The parable is situated within a series of teachings by Jesus that address the use of wealth and the attitudes of the Pharisees, who were known for their love of money (Luke 16:14). It follows the parable of the shrewd manager, which also deals with themes of stewardship and the wise use of resources. The Rich Man and Lazarus serves as a stark contrast between two lives and their respective eternal destinies.

The Characters:
1. The Rich Man: The parable introduces a wealthy man who lives in luxury, dressed in purple and fine linen, and feasting sumptuously every day. His opulence is highlighted to emphasize his self-indulgence and lack of concern for others, particularly the poor.

2. Lazarus: In contrast, Lazarus is a poor man, covered with sores, who lies at the rich man's gate, longing to eat the scraps that fall from the rich man's table. His name, meaning "God has helped," is significant as it underscores his dependence on divine mercy.

The Afterlife:
Upon their deaths, the destinies of the two men diverge dramatically. Lazarus is carried by angels to Abraham's side, a place of comfort and rest, often interpreted as a representation of paradise or heaven. The rich man, however, finds himself in Hades, a place of torment and suffering.

Dialogue and Themes:
In his torment, the rich man sees Abraham far away with Lazarus by his side. He calls out for mercy, asking Abraham to send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water to cool his tongue, for he is in agony. Abraham responds, reminding the rich man of the good things he received in life and the suffering Lazarus endured. A great chasm, Abraham explains, prevents anyone from crossing from one side to the other.

The rich man then pleads for Lazarus to be sent to his five brothers to warn them, so they might avoid his fate. Abraham replies that they have Moses and the Prophets to listen to, implying that the Scriptures provide sufficient warning. The rich man insists that a resurrection would convince them, but Abraham concludes, "If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead" (Luke 16:31).

Interpretation:
The parable serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibilities that come with wealth and the importance of compassion and generosity. It underscores the reality of the afterlife and the irreversible nature of one's choices after death. The narrative also highlights the sufficiency of Scripture as a guide for righteous living and the futility of seeking additional signs when one's heart is hardened.

Theological Implications:
The account of the Rich Man and Lazarus challenges believers to reflect on their attitudes toward wealth and the needy. It calls for a life of faithfulness to God's commands, as revealed in Scripture, and a recognition of the eternal consequences of earthly actions. The parable also affirms the existence of an afterlife where justice is ultimately served, offering hope to the oppressed and a warning to the complacent.