New Testament
Luke 16:28
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I have 5 brothers. Let him warn them so they don't end up in this place of torment too.'
Compare translations
For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.
What Luke 16:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a man in torment after death expresses concern for his five brothers still living. He pleads for someone to warn them about the consequences of their actions, hoping to prevent them from experiencing the same fate. This highlights the importance of heeding warnings and making wise choices in life. The man realizes too late that his previous life choices have led him to a place of suffering, and he desires to spare his family from a similar outcome. This moment emphasizes the urgency of sharing knowledge and truth about spiritual matters, as well as the deep connections we have with our loved ones. It serves as a reminder that our actions have lasting effects, not just on ourselves but also on those we care about. The plea for a warning underscores the need for compassion and responsibility towards others, urging us to consider how our lives and decisions can influence the lives of those around us.
How to apply Luke 16:28 to your life
This verse encourages us to actively share important truths with our loved ones. We should not wait until it’s too late to warn them about the spiritual implications of their choices. Engaging in open conversations about faith and morality can help guide them toward a better path.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: Mending Their Nets (Mark 1:19–20)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
John the Apostle

Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Luke 16:28
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Luke 16:28
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 16:28 mean?
In Luke 16:28, a man in torment after death expresses concern for his five brothers still alive, asking for a warning to prevent them from suffering the same fate. This highlights the importance of making wise choices in life and the impact of our actions on others.
What is the significance of the plea in Luke 16:28?
The plea in Luke 16:28 emphasizes the urgency of sharing important truths about spiritual matters with loved ones. It serves as a reminder that our choices have lasting consequences, not just for ourselves but also for those we care about.
What does the term 'place of torment' refer to in Luke 16:28?
The 'place of torment' in Luke 16:28 refers to a state of suffering after death, indicating the consequences of one's life choices. It underscores the seriousness of spiritual decisions and the reality of consequences in the afterlife.
How does Luke 16:28 relate to family responsibility?
Luke 16:28 highlights the responsibility we have to warn and guide our family members about the spiritual implications of their choices. It encourages open conversations about faith and morality to help them avoid negative outcomes.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.