Topical Encyclopedia The Parable of the Good Samaritan is one of the most well-known teachings of Jesus Christ, found in the Gospel of Luke 10:25-37. This parable is a profound illustration of love, mercy, and the breaking of social barriers, emphasizing the call to love one's neighbor as oneself.Context and Setting The parable is introduced when an expert in the law approaches Jesus with a question: “Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” (Luke 10:25). Jesus responds by asking the lawyer to interpret the Law, to which he answers, “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’ and ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’” (Luke 10:27). Seeking to justify himself, the lawyer further inquires, “And who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:29). It is in response to this question that Jesus presents the parable. The Parable In the parable, Jesus describes a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho who is attacked by robbers. They strip him of his clothes, beat him, and leave him half-dead. A priest happens to be going down the same road, but when he sees the man, he passes by on the other side. Similarly, a Levite comes to the place and sees him, but he too passes by on the other side. However, a Samaritan, as he travels, comes upon the man and is moved with compassion. He approaches the injured man, bandages his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he places the man on his own donkey, brings him to an inn, and takes care of him. The next day, he gives the innkeeper two denarii and instructs him, “Take care of him. On my return, I will repay you for any additional expense” (Luke 10:35). Significance and Interpretation The parable is striking for its choice of characters. The priest and the Levite, both respected figures in Jewish society, fail to show compassion. In contrast, the Samaritan, a member of a group despised by the Jews, exemplifies true neighborly love. This choice challenges the prevailing social and religious norms of the time, highlighting that love and mercy transcend ethnic and religious boundaries. Jesus concludes the parable by asking the lawyer, “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” The lawyer answers, “The one who showed him mercy.” Jesus then instructs, “Go and do likewise” (Luke 10:36-37). Theological Themes The Parable of the Good Samaritan underscores several key theological themes: 1. Universal Love and Compassion: The parable teaches that love for one's neighbor is not limited by social, ethnic, or religious boundaries. It calls for a universal application of compassion and mercy. 2. True Righteousness: The actions of the Samaritan illustrate that true righteousness is demonstrated through acts of kindness and mercy, rather than mere adherence to religious rituals or social status. 3. Challenge to Prejudice: By making a Samaritan the hero of the account, Jesus challenges the prejudices of His audience, urging them to see beyond societal divisions and to recognize the humanity and worth of every individual. 4. Practical Application of the Law: The parable emphasizes that the essence of the Law is fulfilled in love and mercy, aligning with Jesus' teaching that all the Law and the Prophets hang on the commandments to love God and neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). The Parable of the Good Samaritan remains a timeless call to embody the love and compassion of Christ in all interactions, serving as a powerful reminder of the inclusive and transformative nature of the Gospel. Nave's Topical Index Luke 10:30-37And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. Nave's Topical Index Library The Parable of the Good Samaritan. (Luke, X. , 25, Seq. ) The Life of Jesus Christ in Its Historical Connexion The Good Samaritan The Good Samaritan Chronological Table of the Life of Christ [From Andrews. ] The Good Samaritan. Christ Teaching by Parables The Second Series of Parables - the Two Parables of Him who is ... The Four-Fold Gospel Index. Resources Who is Jesus Christ? | GotQuestions.orgIs there power in the name of Jesus? | GotQuestions.org Is Jesus God? Did Jesus ever claim to be God? | GotQuestions.org Jesus: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |