Luke 10:36
Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?
Luke 10:36 (KJV)
Context
Luke 10:36 is the concluding question of the Parable of the Good Samaritan, which Jesus tells in response to a lawyer who asked, “Who is my neighbour?” (Luke 10:29). In the parable, a man is attacked by thieves, robbed, and left wounded on the road. A priest and a Levite pass by without helping him, but a Samaritan—despised by the Jews—stops, shows compassion, and provides care for the wounded man.
Meaning
In verse 36, Jesus asks the lawyer which of the three—the priest, the Levite, or the Samaritan—he thinks was a neighbour to the man in need. The Greek word translated “neighbour” means “one who is near” or “one who draws near.” Jesus’ question inverts the lawyer’s original inquiry: instead of asking who deserves my love, Jesus asks who showed love. The answer is the one who showed mercy, regardless of social or religious boundaries. The Samaritan, though an outcast, demonstrated true neighbourly love by his compassionate actions.
Biblical connections
The question forces the lawyer—and the reader—to acknowledge that the despised outsider understood the law of love better than the religious insiders. It serves as a bridge to the command in Luke 10:37, “Go, and do thou likewise.” The lawyer’s answer in that verse, “He that shewed mercy on him,” confirms that the Samaritan, despite being considered an outcast, demonstrated true neighbourly love by showing mercy and compassion to the wounded man.
Application
The parable and Jesus’ question in verse 36 convey several important lessons for us today:
Love and Compassion: The parable highlights the importance of extending love and compassion to everyone, regardless of societal or cultural differences. It challenges us to break down barriers and prejudices, showing kindness to those in need.
Recognizing Neighbors: Being a neighbour goes beyond proximity or personal preference. It involves actively seeking opportunities to help and care for others, even if they are different from us.
Challenging Prejudices: Just as the Samaritan challenged the prejudices of the Jews by helping the wounded man, we are called to challenge our own biases and preconceived notions, treating all people with dignity and respect.
Practicing Mercy: The lawyer’s response underscores the importance of showing mercy. In our daily lives, we should actively seek opportunities to demonstrate God’s mercy, extending forgiveness, grace, and assistance to those who need it.
Reflection
Jesus’ question turns the lawyer’s focus from defining a neighbour to being one. The Samaritan’s actions show that neighbourliness is demonstrated through compassionate action, not through religious status or ethnic identity. As we consider this verse, we are invited to examine our own willingness to draw near to those in need, crossing the boundaries that separate us.
