Ellen Chat Conversation

In her analysis of the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, Ellen White identifies the rich man as a representative of the Jewish nation during the time of Christ. She explains that the Jewish people had been favored with every temporal and spiritual blessing, having been appointed by God as the depositaries of sacred truth and stewards of His grace (COL 267). Like the rich man in the story, they possessed the "talent of means" and enjoyed great blessings but proved unfaithful to the One who entrusted them with these goods (14MR 57.3). The rich man specifically represents those who use the Lord's goods for selfish gratification rather than cooperating with God to help others (COL 267).

While the Jewish nation claimed to be the "seed of Abraham," their actions revealed they had divorced themselves from God and placed their trust in their lineage rather than in a living faith (COL 267). This class of people is characterized by a failure to provide for the temporal or spiritual necessities of suffering humanity, despite being abundantly able to relieve such distress (COL 261.2). Furthermore, the rich man represents the covetous Pharisees who derided Christ's teachings on stewardship (1T 539.2).

Although such individuals might be highly esteemed among men due to their wealth, their lack of true moral worth makes them an abomination in the sight of God (1T 539.2). The parable serves as a warning that being a "wealthy nobleman" or a member of a favored nation does not secure God's favor if one lives only for self-gratification and neglects the poor (14MR 57.3). Ultimately, the rich man symbolizes any "unfaithful steward" who hoards earthly treasure for themselves while remaining forgetful of their obligations to God (COL 266.1).

He represents those who believe that selfish pleasure is the sum of happiness, only to realize too late that they have failed to secure eternal riches (PrT June 1, 1899, par. 3).

You might also want to explore:
What did Ellen White teach about the state of the dead in relation to this parable?
How does the character of Lazarus represent the "believing, suffering ones" of God?
What practical counsel did she give regarding the responsibility of those who possess wealth?

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