Luke 16:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 16:27
27 Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house:
Chapter Context
Luke 16 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, fellowship, faith. 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 16:27
27 Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house:
Analysis
The second request: 'Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house.' Having failed to obtain personal relief, the rich man shifts to concern for others—'send him to my father's house' (πέμψῃς αὐτὸν εἰς τὸν οἶκον τοῦ πατρός μου, pempsēs auton eis ton oikon tou patros mou). This reveals he has 'five brethren' (v. 28) who are living as carelessly as he did. His concern, while commendable in one sense, comes too late for himself. The request assumes that supernatural warning (Lazarus returning from the dead) would convince his brothers where Scripture hasn't. This exposes the human tendency to blame insufficient evidence rather than willful unbelief. If people reject Scripture, they'll reject even miracles.
Historical Context
The rich man's concern for his brothers demonstrates that hell doesn't erase human relationships or memories—he still cares about his family. This makes hell even more agonizing: knowing loved ones are heading toward the same torment but being unable to warn them. His assumption that resurrection testimony would convince them shows he doesn't understand the human heart's hardness. Abraham's response (vv. 29-31) will show that people who reject Moses and the prophets won't believe even if someone rises from the dead. Ironically, Jesus Himself would rise from the dead, yet many still refused to believe. The problem isn't insufficient evidence but rebellious hearts.
Reflection
- What does the rich man's concern for his brothers teach about conscious memory and relationships in the afterlife?
- How does his request expose the false assumption that people would believe if they just had more evidence or signs?
- What does this teach about the sufficiency of Scripture for salvation?