SHOWING LOVE
Luke 10:25–37
Some stories and teachings from the Scriptures find their way into the fabric of our society and daily conversations. Even if someone is not a believer in Christ or does not hold the Bible in high regard, they will reference the ministry of Jesus or quote His words. The story of the good Samaritan is a great example.
This wonderful illustration shines a light on the human condition, pride, hospitality and loving others who are different from us. Like many of Jesus’ parables, the story elicits a response from the listener. His words penetrate the heart and cause us to examine the choices we make and the practice of our faith.
Loving others starts with loving God. (25–28)
When reading the gospels, you are likely to notice certain patterns in the teaching ministry of Jesus.
One such pattern is how He dealt with questions. When Jesus was asked a question, He often replied with one of His own. This was not because He lacked knowledge or understanding; rather, He wanted others to contemplate their intentions and consider their own situation.
In these verses, we meet a lawyer seeking to justify himself and cover all the spiritual bases. He is your typical person on the street today, wanting to do just enough to be better than the worst guy he knows.
He sought justification through works and did not account for the importance of love. Knowing Scripture in our heads is one thing. Choosing for it to move our hands and feet is another.
Loving others looks beyond any biases. (29–32)
Jesus reveals to the man that his neighbor is more than someone he shares a region or community with. Everyone is our neighbor and showing love is expected. True, Christlike love goes beyond the superficial.
This powerful love recognizes others’ needs and seeks to comfort the hurting. Religious leaders and others we would label as good people all passed the dying man without so much as a word of assurance.
Each one of us has imperfections and flaws. As you become closer to someone, you see those flaws more clearly. At that point, you have a choice. You can either reject the person and their shortcomings, or you can choose to love them anyway.
A true love sees the good in others and is slow to judge.
Loving others is not always easy or convenient. (33–37)
We know that the most authentic love stories include adversity and struggle. Love sometimes costs us.
It will make us vulnerable, but it will also open the door to blessings and to people we would not otherwise know.
In this parable, Jesus revealed the Samaritan’s empathetic heart. In Jewish society, Samaritans were despised. Jesus chose this scenario to show what it means to broaden our worldview. It is possible that those who have been hurt the most in life are the quickest to show love to others. They understand the power that a kind word or a gracious gesture can have when someone is at their lowest. While others passed by the hurting man, the Samaritan chose to demonstrate the power of love.
This wonderful picture points us to Jesus. Each of us, in our time of spiritual need, was recognized by Jesus and while we were still sinners, Christ died to show His love for us. We can say we love the world, but are we willing to show it?
EDITOR’S NOTE — The Sunday School lesson outlines are provided by Lifeway.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
