Luke 16:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 16:20
20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,
Chapter Context
Luke 16 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, righteousness, mercy. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 16:20
20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,
Analysis
Jesus introduces the poor man: 'And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores.' The name 'Lazarus' (Λάζαρος, Lazaros) is the Greek form of Eleazar, meaning 'God helps.' This is the only person named in Jesus' parables, suggesting either historical reality or emphasizing God's personal knowledge of the poor. The phrase 'laid at his gate' (ἐβέβλητο πρὸς τὸν πυλῶνα αὐτοῦ, ebeblēto pros ton pylōna autou) indicates he was placed there—too weak to move himself. 'Full of sores' (ἡλκωμένος, hēlkōmenos, ulcerated) describes painful, infected wounds. Lazarus represents the utterly helpless, depending entirely on others' mercy.
Historical Context
In ancient society, beggars positioned themselves at wealthy people's gates hoping for scraps and charity. The rich man passed Lazarus daily, seeing his suffering but offering no help. This pictures Israel's religious elite who had God's word and covenant privileges yet showed no compassion to the spiritually poor and afflicted. The contrast between the rich man's self-indulgent feasting and Lazarus' painful deprivation sets up the great reversal in eternity. Jesus consistently taught that earthly status doesn't indicate divine favor, and that God's kingdom inverts worldly hierarchies (Luke 1:51-53, 6:20-26, 13:30).
Reflection
- How does naming Lazarus but not the rich man suggest God's priorities and perspective?
- What does Lazarus' helpless condition teach about human spiritual neediness apart from grace?
- How should this parable shape Christian responses to visible poverty and suffering?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Luke 16:21, 1 Samuel 2:8, Job 2:7, Acts 3:2, James 1:9, 2:5