Luke 16:29
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 16:29
29 Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.
Chapter Context
Luke 16 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of wisdom, redemption, grace. 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 16:29
29 Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.
Analysis
Abraham's response: 'Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.' Abraham points to Scripture—'Moses and the prophets' (Μωϋσέα καὶ τοὺς προφήτας, Mōusea kai tous prophētas)—as sufficient revelation. The command 'let them hear them' (ἀκουσάτωσαν αὐτῶν, akousatōsan autōn) indicates God has provided adequate testimony. The Old Testament Scriptures contain everything necessary for salvation: humanity's sinfulness, God's holiness and justice, the need for sacrifice and atonement, and promises of the coming Messiah. If people won't hear Scripture's testimony, supernatural signs won't convince them. The problem isn't insufficient information but hardness of heart.
Historical Context
This verse establishes Scripture's sufficiency for salvation. God has spoken through His word; nothing else is required. The phrase 'Moses and the prophets' was Jewish shorthand for the Old Testament (Luke 24:27, 44). These Scriptures testified about Christ and salvation (John 5:39, 46). Abraham's appeal to Scripture rather than agreeing to send Lazarus teaches that faith comes by hearing the word (Romans 10:17), not by spectacular signs. Jesus consistently refused to perform signs for those demanding miracles as conditions for belief (Matthew 12:38-39, 16:1-4). Those who reject Scripture won't be convinced by miracles—the same hardness that resists God's word resists His works.
Reflection
- How does this verse establish the Bible's sufficiency for knowing God and obtaining salvation?
- Why won't people who reject Scripture be convinced even by supernatural signs?
- What does this teach about the relationship between faith and evidence?
Word Studies
- Prophet: προφήτης (Prophētēs) G4396 - Prophet
Cross-References
- Prophecy: Luke 24:27
- References Moses: Acts 15:21