• Four Ways To Minister Like The Good Samaritan

  Contributed by Dr. Larry Petton on Apr 2, 2022 (message contributor)

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  Scripture:  Luke 10

  Tags:  Service, Ministry, Parables, Neighbor, Kindness, Good Samaritan  (view more)  (view less)

  Denomination: Evangelical/Non-Denominational

As we study the characteristics of the Good Samaritan, let’s ask ourselves if these qualities are true of us as well. He opened his eyes. Although all three men physically saw the critically wounded man, only the Samaritan looked and stopped to help. Before we can meet needs, we must be aware of them.

1. He opened his HEART. The difference between the priest and Levite’s gaze and the Samaritan’s was compassion. The Samaritan saw the helplessness and suffering of the dying man, and his heart went out to him. Even though he knew that pausing on this dangerous road could result in being attacked and robbed himself, his compassion overruled his caution. Instead of being preoccupied with his own safety, he focused on the suffering of another.

2. He opened his HANDS. The Samaritan didn’t just feel sorry for this poor man, he relieved his suffering by pouring oil and wine on his wounds and bandaging them. But if he had merely treated the wounds and left him on the road, it wouldn’t have been much help. The Samaritan didn’t leave him behind, but lifted him onto his donkey, brought him to the nearest inn, and took care of him.

3. He opened his POCKETBOOK. Since the Samaritan was on a journey, he needed to continue traveling even though the injured man needed time to recover. Instead of simply dropping him off and leaving, the Samaritan paid the innkeeper to look after him. Then he promised to return and repay him for whatever more he had to spend for this man’s care.

4. He opened his PERSONAL SCHEDULE. The Samaritan was willing to have his trip interrupted in order to offer aid to a needy, helpless man. He put his journey on hold for a while in order to do that which was more important—show compassion and care to someone in need.

Remember, there are 3 attitudes on display in the Parable of the Good Samaritan:

* THIEVES - "What is yours is mine, and I'm going to take it."

* PRIEST AND LEVITES - "What is mine is mine, and I'm going to keep it!"

* GOOD SAMARITAN - "What is mine is God's and I'm willing to give it!"

Which one are you?

- unknown