INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. A Certain: Priest Saw Him
2. A Certain: Levite Looked on Him
3. A Certain: Samaritan Helped Him
Remarks.
1. In our lesson today, we are going to be discussing the theme: "Go and do likewise." This sermon will address three men that came upon a certain man; that was beaten, robbed, and left for dead; on the roadside, going down from Jerusalem to Jericho. This story was presented to a particular lawyer who asked Jesus: "What must he do to inherit eternal life?" The Lord responded: "What is written in the Law? How readest thou?" And he answering said: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God... And thy neighbor as thyself." And Jesus said unto him: "Thou hast answered right: do this, and thou shalt live." But he, willing to justify himself: "Said unto Jesus, who is my neighbor?" Luke 10:25-29. In response to his question, our Lord presents a story that we commonly refer to as: "The Good Samaritan." We will consider each of these three men's behavior towards their neighbor, who they found in extreme peril.
2. First, we will consider the Priest's actions, who came by the incident scene by chance. The Lord says: "And when he saw him (the victim), he passed by on the other side," Luke 10:31. I use this word victim because the Priest's duties were to offer sacrifices for the people's sins. He must have been too busy with the duties and rites of the altar of God; in offering (the blood of bulls and goats), on behalf of the people, to allot any time on behalf of this stranger. Can we become so harden and callous in the performance of our duties; we forget why it is we are doing them? How many victims have we seen, and we too just "passed by on the other side?"
3. Second, we will discuss the behavior of the Levite, who looked on him, and also passed by on the other side," Luke 10:32. The Levites were those who, not being of Aaron's family, for whom alone the priesthood was reserved, served as assistants to the priests. It was their duty to keep the sacred utensils and the temple clean, provide the holy loaves, open and shut the temple's gates, sing the sacred hymns in the temple, and do many other things. He, too, was so busy with his duties; he could not justify the time to help this stranger. Can we become too busy in our religion, ignore our final mission in life, rescue the perishing, or give aid to a stranger in need?
4. Lastly, we will investigate the behavior of the Samaritan, who: "Came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him. And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his beast, and brought him to an inn (the Holiday Inn), and took care of him... I will repay thee," Luke 10:33-35. We now see the real meaning of the story. Everyone in the story was identified by the Lord, except the "man left in peril" or our "neighbor." Jesus asks the Lawyer and us this question: "Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves?" And he said, "He that shewed mercy on him." Hear the Lord's charge: "Then said Jesus unto him (and us), Go, and do thou likewise," Luke 10:34-37. With this brief introduction, let's consider the first point in this lesson.
BODY OF LESSON
I A CERTAIN: PRIEST SAW HIM
A. Setting of the lesson. Before the Lord describes the three men who came by; to help the stranger in this story. He paints for the Lawyer and us, a victim at a crime scene, with great clarity. Recall, this story was being shared immediately after the Lord's answer to the Lawyer's request on how: "He might inherit eternal life," Luke 10:25. That he might be perfect!
1. The Lord said unto him: "What is written in the law? How readest thou?" Luke 10:26. Consider--
2. And he answering said: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God," Luke 10:26.
3. The Lord's response: "Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live."
4. The Lawyer willing to justify himself: "Said...who is my neighbor?" Jesus answering said, in presenting an explanation to his question...
B. 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," Luke 10:30. Most likely, a Jew of Jerusalem, whose identity is not given by the Lord in this story, fell among thieves and robbers. Consider--
1. The road to Jericho. The road from Jerusalem to Jericho was dark, lonely, mountain pass, and dangerous to sojourners who traveler it alone; and without a guard. He was stripped of all his clothing, beaten, robbed, and left stunned, bleeding, unconscious, and nearly dead. The Lord paints a graphic picture of the man traveling to Jericho. Notice:
a. The road was a constant descent from Jerusalem to Jericho, over 3,000 feet in elevation, about eighteen miles distance to travel.
b. The traveler is either "going down from Jerusalem" or "going up to Jerusalem," Acts 18:22. This was due entirely to its elevation. A city that is set on a hill! Consider--
c. I see a parallel of events in this story. Notice:
1) Jesus, as a stranger, came down from heaven to earth.
2) And fell among wicked religious leaders and Gentiles.
3) He was arrested, stripped of His clothing, beaten, and whipped.
4) Leaving Him half dead as a victim in a Roman courtyard.
5) He was compelled to bear a cross to Golgotha's hill.
6) On which He was crucified.
7) Where later, He died and was buried.
8) But, on the third day, He arose, 1 Corinthians 15:1-4.
2. He was wounded: "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and with his stripes, we are healed," Isaiah 53:5.
a. The love of God: "For God commended His love towards us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us," Romans 5:8-11; John 3:16.
b. The love of Christ: "Constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: And that he died for all that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him which died for them, and rose again," 2 Corinthians 5:14-15.
c. The golden rule: "Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets," Matthew 7:14. We mention this now, for it is the basis of all our actions. Help those who need help; that they might help you when you need assistance. But our Lord goes a lot further in this rule. He also includes our enemy. This will prove helpful later in this lesson. Hear the Lord--
3. Love thy enemy. Jesus said: "Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you. That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh the sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sendeth rain on the just and the unjust. For it ye love them...do not even the publicans so? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect," Matthew 5:43-48.
Our Lord continues the story--
C. And by chance. "There came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side," Luke 10:31. Notice:
1. As good fortune would have it, a priest came by that way. Our first neighbor in this story; was a priest. He was a man of religious standing, which stood between the people and God; came down the road where the event occurred.
a. He saw this man (his neighbor), which had been beaten, robbed, and left for dead. What did he do? Like many today: "He passed by on the other side."
b. The word or position of Priest in Gr. is hiereús, hee-er-yooce'; from; a priest (literally or figuratively):—(high) priest. He is a man that knew the Law and was set over Israel to teach it unto the people.
c. B. W. Johnson wrote: "A certain priest. Jericho was a city of priests. A priest ought to be a holy man. The Law commanded mercy and help to a neighbor, Exodus 23:3-4; Deuteronomy 22:1-4. The Priest...disregarded the Law in passing the poor sufferer," Page 187.
d. Matthew Henry wrote: "The parable is a beautiful explanation of the Law of loving our neighbor as ourselves, without regard to Nation, party, or any other distinction. It also sets forth the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward sinful, miserable men," Page 910.
2. This was a severe indictment to the religious leaders of Israel, and it is so reminiscent of the days now in America. The message of Christ: "To love God with all... and your neighbor as yourself," has been abandon; for the "love of money," or the "promise of political favors," from selfish and ungodly politicians, and congressional leaders, in Washington, D.C.
3. This Priest saw the man's condition; but took no actions to help him, although he was stripped of his clothing, beaten, and left on the roadside, half dead.
4. We might ask? How can one so close to God be so removed from his neighbor? The Lawyer knew the Law and boasted as being a keeper of its precepts to Jesus. And so did the Priest.
5. Can religious people be so embroiled against one another; that evens our most essential beliefs and values in God can permit us to ignore mercy and pity when we view our neighbors in trouble? That is, can we--
a. Forget that we claim to love God with all our hearts, soul, mind, and strength?
b. And that we pledge to love our neighbor, just like we love our self?
c. Recall the Law of love this Lawyer quoted: "And ... to love thy neighbor as thyself," Luke 10:27.
d. Jesus explains, on these two commandments: "Hang all the law and the prophets," Matthew 22:40.
D. Religious people. What is the application for us today? The Lawyer, as well as the Priest, knew the Law? However, both failed to live up to it in earnest. Notice:
1. The Lawyer claimed in Matthew's account: "These things I have done from my youth," Matthew 19:16-22. He boasted of his success in keeping the Law.
a. He stated to the Lord all these commandments he had kept from his youth.
b. Yet, the most important commandments of the Law, he had failed to keep.
c. James reminds us: "But if ye have the respect of persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all," James 2:9-10.
d. God is no respecter of persons. Notice:
1) Under the Law: "Wherefore now let the fear of the LORD be upon you; take heed and do it: for there is no iniquity with the LORD our God, nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts (bribes)... Moreover, in Jerusalem, did Jehoshaphat set (up) of the Levites, the priests, and the chief of Israel's fathers, for the LORD's judgment and controversies... And he charged them, saying, Thus shall ye do in fear of the LORD, faithfully, and with a perfect heart. And what cause (case) soever shall come to you of your brethren that dwell in their cities, between blood and blood, between Law and commandment, statutes and judgments, ye shall even warn them that they trespass not against the LORD," 2 Chronicles 19:7-10.
a) What was the warning? Religious leaders should judge without respect for persons and neither take bribes nor influence their rulings or judgment. Amazing!
b) Maybe our Courts and leaders should read and understand this warning?
c) That they might remember Jehovah's warning to the priests, Levites, and the chief fathers of Israel. The Law of God in this regard has not changed.
2) Solomon wrote:
a) One, "It is not good to have the respect of persons in judgment," Proverbs 24:23.
b) Two, "To have the respect of persons is not good: for (even) a piece of bread that man will transgress," Proverbs 28:21.
3) Paul wrote: "For there is no respect of persons with God," Romans 2:11; Ephesians 6:9; Colossians 3:25.
4) James wrote: "My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons," James 2:1; James 2:9.
5) Peter wrote: "And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work," 1 Peter 1:17; Acts 10:34-35.
a) We will discuss his fault later in this lesson.
b) I might add; many of our preachers today are also guilty of Peter's sin regarding partiality.
c) Illustrate Peter's sin in Galatians 2:11-14.
2. The Priest was the representative of God before the people. He officiated at the altar every day on behalf of them. The high Priest went into the "holiest of holy" once a year to stand in God's presence and offer a blood sacrifice for the people's sins.
3. But somehow, the heart of this Priest could not be moved by compassion to help his neighbor, lying helpless on the side of the road. How dwelleth the "love of God" in him?
a. John wrote: "But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have to need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?" See 1 John 3:17.
b. James wrote: "If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue... Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world," James 1:26-27.
E. Application. What is the application for us in this lesson? How must we see ourselves in this man, the Levite or the Samaritan? Consider this--
1. First, religious leaders. Ministers, teachers, and church leaderships; have been called to help their neighbors. We can only serve others when we are genuinely committed to Christ and His work. I see more commitment to one's political party than to the Lord. We cannot serve God and mammon, Matthew 6:24; Luke 16:13.
2. Further, political parties. When we, as leaders of faith, compromise the truth of God to obtain favors from political officials, we lose all rights to speak and help for the "man beside the road."
a. When the salt has lost its savor: "It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men," Matthew 5:13.
b. When we forget the Law, Jesus said: "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cumin and have omitted the weightier matters of the Law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these things ye should have done, and not to leave the other undone," Matthew 23:23.
3. Finally, the evangelical movement, founded by the late Billy Graham, has neglected the cry for help by the oppressed and downtrodden people of America (the immigrants who have sought refuge in America) to obtain better lives for their families). These religious leaders have--
a. Made covenants with the Republican Party to accomplish their perverted goals and ungodly deeds against immigrants; people of color, different ethnic groups; specific different religious values, and even people having different political standings. We can hate and despise the sin, yet, like Jesus, we ought to love the sinner enough to die for them. Can we oppose His will?
b. The late Billy Graham lost his way and message; when he formed an alliance with Richard Nixon; and found out later how corrupt and dishonest the President's actions and methods were to win his reelection.
c. Mr. Graham confessed in later years of this severe mistake. The damage was done; he had lost his voice of: "One crying in the wilderness to make straight the pathway for the Lord," Isaiah 40:3-5; and Matthew 3:1-3.
4. Conclusion. When religious leaders abandon the "word of God" to persuade certain politicians (with their votes and money); to bribe them to enact legislation against certain people or groups: they too have lost: "Their savor, and are henceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men," Matthew 5:13.
a. Many religious leaders today (like us), have observed the evils of the White House, and the "buying of indulgences" in the Congress, by certain Lobbyists; and the partisan politics of several members of Congress; to stack the Supreme Court with judges, that can be bought with bribes; yet, they have said, or did nothing, exposing these deplorable practices. Consider that--
1) They all have remained "silent as the tomb."
2) They can all be likened unto: "Whited sepulchers which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness," Matthew 23:27.
3) They present themselves: "To outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within they are full of hypocrisy and iniquity," Matthew 23:28.
4) The Lord cried: "Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?" Matthew 23:33.
b. This is how Jesus described these religious leaders during the last few days of His earthly ministry, days before His betrayal, death, burial, and resurrection.
c. They too were described as looking; but, they all: "Pass by on the other side."
d. The evangelical movement; and other religious groups which seek such favors have "hitch their wagon to one of the most insensitive, corrupt and dysfunctional Administration" ever elected by the people of America.
1) For what purpose, I might ask?
2) They want special favors from the President, the Congress, and the Courts.
3) They desire favors that discriminate against the minority voters by implementing legislation that suppresses their vote; denying certain immigrants the right to enter America legally, and outright tactics of terrorism against working people, and breaking up families; by displacing children from parents.
4) Is this an America; whose "city is the light on the hill?" I think not. This Administration has brought shame and reproach upon this Nation.
e. What have they given for such favors? They have abandoned their message of hope and salvation in Christ, their ministry to the world, and their souls for political gains and legislative profits. May God have mercy upon all of them! Can any good come out of Washington D.C.? I will speak to these evils in our last point as we make an application for this lesson. Let's consider the next man in this story to see if he provides help for his neighbor. Jesus continues--
II A CERTAIN: LEVITE LOOKED ON HIM
A. And likewise a Levite: "When he was at the place (crime scene), came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side," Luke 10:32.
1. First, the word Levite in Gr. is Leuites, lyoo-ee'-tace; from; a Levite, i.e., a descendant of Levi:—Levite. Consider, the--
a. The Levite was the tribe which descended from Levi, the 3rd son of Jacob by Leah, expressly set aside by God, for his service of the sanctuary, Deuteronomy 18:5. The Levite was a temple minister. He probably excused himself for his disregard by witnessing the Priest's behavior on another occasion.
b. They were part of the family of Aaron, to whom the priesthood was granted, with all of its officiation.
c. They were not owners of the inheritance of land; they were to be provided assistance and help by the people of Israel. Moses wrote:
1) One, "Take heed to thyself that thou forsake not the Levite as long as thou livest upon the earth," Deuteronomy 12:19. The people were charged never to forsake or forget the Levite and provide for his needs from their substances.
2) Two, "And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shall not forsake him; for he hath no part, nor inheritance with thee," Deuteronomy 14:27.
3) Three, "And the Levite, (because he hath no part, nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest," Deuteronomy 14:29.
2. Further, the Levite was himself a "stranger within the land of Israel." He was provided means, support, and goods from the people. He indeed must have known what it meant to be a stranger and requiring help from another?
3. Finally, the Levite was the representative of the people; and assisted the Priest in his daily affairs of sacrifice and offerings for the people, unto God.
B. When he was at the place. This phrase suggests; that the Levite went a little further in his investigation of the man's condition, left half dead beside the road.
1. He went across the road. It appears this Levite went one step further than the Priest. He went across the street and looked upon the man in need.
2. He looked upon the man in his distress. However, just like the Priest, he showed no compassion or pity for the stranger. Jesus continues, he--
C. Came and looked at him. Notice these passages from the Old Testament writers. They set forth our duty unto the poor and strangers.
1. Solomon wrote of our need to care for them. He that--
a. Giveth to the poor: "He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse," Proverbs 28:27.
b. Pity the poor: "He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again," Proverbs 19:17.
c. Give bread to the poor: "He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed for he giveth bread to the poor," Proverbs 22:9.
d. What about caring for strangers?
1) Moses wrote: "But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God," Leviticus 19:34; Deuteronomy 10:18-19.
2) Job wrote: "The stranger did not lodge in the street: but I opened my doors to the traveler," Job 31:32. Job said that he "opened his doors unto strangers."
3) John wrote: "Dear friend, you are faithful to God when you care for the traveling teachers (preachers) who pass through, even though they are strangers to you," 3 John 1:5. Take care of the traveling ministers and servants of God.
4) The Hebrew writer penned: "Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares," Hebrews 13:1-2.
e. Conclusion: The Israelites were compelled to care for the strangers that dwelt in their land. They were to treat them as brothers. It would be no hard things for a real Jew to have cared for this stranger, who had fallen among thieves; and was beaten, robbed, and left for dead beside the road. What was lacking in these two men that forbade them to help? They forgot the Law. Their hearts were void of compassion and mercy for this stranger.
2. Job wrote that God delivereth the poor: "Behold, God is mighty, and despiseth, not any: he is mighty in strength and wisdom... He delivereth the poor in his affliction," Job 36:5-15. David also wrote regarding the poor.
3. David wrote: "I will greatly praise the LORD with my mouth; yea, I will praise him among the multitude. For he (the Lord) shall stand at the right hand of the poor, to save him from those that condemn his soul," Psalms 109:30-31. They that do such; their judgment is forthcoming, James 5:1-6.
4. The apostle John wrote: "But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have to need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?" 1 John 3:17.
5. Conclusion: When it is within our power, we must show compassion and aid those oppressed. To do less; is a violation of both Christian and humanitarian duties. Unlike this Priest, we must not do as he did...
D. And passed by on the other side. He passed by on the side opposite to the wounded man, showing no compassion for him. The righteous Jew is taught to take care of not only a stranger; but the stranger's ox if it was found in a ditch.
But contrariwise, we find this Levite showing no compassion on this stranger, who was beaten and lying helpless by the wayside. Moses wrote:
1. Thy brother's ox: "Thou shalt not see thy brother's ass or his ox fall by the way, and hide thyself from them: thou shalt surely help him to lift them again," Deuteronomy 22:1; Deuteronomy 22:4. Not only unto his brother was this charge; but, also unto his enemy.
2. thy enemy's ox: "If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again. If thou see the ass of him that hath thee lying under his burden and wouldest forbear to help him, thou shalt surely help with him," Exodus 23:4-5. If we are to do such for our brother or enemy's ox, what shall we do for our neighbor or our enemy?
3. Solomon wrote: "If thy enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink," Proverbs 25:21.
4. Paul wrote:
a. First, to the Romans: "Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good," Romans 12:20-21.
b. Further, to the Thessalonians: "See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among your selves, and to all men," 1 Thessalonians 5:15.
c. Finally, to the Galatians: "And let us not be weary in well doing... and especially unto them who are of the household of faith," Galatians 6:9-10.
5. Jesus said: "When the Son of man shall come in his glory... before Him shall be gathered all nations... Then the King shall say unto them:
a. On his right hand, "Come ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world, for I was:
1) Hungred, and ye gave me meat.
2) Thirsty and ye gave me drink.
3) Stranger and ye took me in.
4) Naked and ye clothed me.
5) Sick and ye visited me.
6) In prison, and ye came unto me.
7) Then the righteous answered Him...when...And the King shall answer and say unto them, verily I say unto you, since ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me," Matthew 25:34-40.
b. On the left hand, "Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: for I was:
1) Hungred, and ye gave me no meat.
2) Thirsty, and ye gave me no drink.
3) Stranger and ye took me not in your house.
4) Naked and ye clothed me not.
5) Sick and in prison, and ye visited me not.
6) Or, beaten lying beside the road nearly dead, and 'helped me not.'
7) Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee...Then shall he answer them...ye did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal," Matthew 25:41-46.
c. Summary: When we as a people, government, or a nation see the poor, the oppressed, and the downtrodden fleeing to our country, and we turn them away or exploit them with evil intentions: how dwelleth the love of God in us?
1) This Nation has shamed the name of the Lord; by its unwillingness to aid the poor, needy, and abused: "The widows and orphans in their afflictions," James 1:26-27.
2) We are no longer a "city set on a hill whose light shines brightly; appearing as a beacon for all seeking help and find rescue."
3) We have become the oppressor; the murder and the hand of evil, the servants of the evil one (the devil).
4) And many religious groups "have hidden their face from this evil" and "have passed by on the other side."
5) We have become a nation of immorality and wickedness; we are no longer an instrument of righteousness and goodness. I ask--
a) Religious leaders: Why are you so silent?
b) Members of the church, why are we so complacent regarding this evil?
c) Ministers of righteousness, why have we not spoken out against the immorality and the corruption in the White House, the Congress, and the Courts? Does not our silence, in these matters, give consent?
6) We have permitted an Administration that: "Lovest evil more than good; and lying rather than to speak righteousness. Selah," Psalms 52:3; Psalms 62:4; Jeremiah 4:22.
7) We have notable preachers (so-called): "That call evil good; and good evil." Consider the Old Testament prophet's words:
a) First, Isaiah wrote: "Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" Isaiah 5:20.
b) Further, Ezekiel recorded Jehovah's words: "Her priests do violence to my law and profane my holy things; they do not distinguish between the holy and the common; they teach that there is no difference between the unclean and the clean; and they shut their eyes to the keeping of my Sabbaths so that I am profaned among them," Ezekiel 22:23-26.
c) Next, he wrote of the prophets and the people: "And her prophets have daubed them with untempered mortar, seeing vanity, and divining lies unto them, saying, thus saith the Lord GOD, when the LORD hath not spoken. The people of the land have used oppression, and exercised robbery, and have vexed the poor and needy: yea, they have oppressed the stranger (immigrants) wrongfully," Ezekiel 22:28-29.
d) Finally, Jehovah said: "And I sought for a man among them:"
i. "That should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none."
ii. "Therefore have I poured out my indignation upon them; I have consumed them with the fire of my wrath: their way have I recompensed upon their heads, saith the Lord GOD," Ezekiel 22:30-31.
iii. Question for the church: Does the Lord have one honest, fearless, bold, and truth-loving minister within her ranks: "To stand in the gap for the Lord God of heaven?"
vi. Surely, of these two, the Levite and Priest; in the story of the Good Samaritan, he found none. They both: "Shut their eyes, and passed by on the other side."
E. Application. Christians are now the "priesthood of God." Peter wrote of our calling and sanctification unto this priesthood. We are--
1. Lively stones: "Ye also, as lively stones, are built upon a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ," 1 Peter 2:5.
2. Royal priesthood: "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light," 1 Peter 2:9.
3. The Hebrew writer wrote: "But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased," Hebrews 13:16. Consider--
a. Our hands must be those that are serving and helping others.
b. Our feet must be swift to do good and run to righteousness and not evil.
c. Our mouth must speak wisely, with words of comfort and peace.
d. Our hearts must love God, self, and others; as we would desire to be loved, Matthew 22:37-40. I wish I had some help in this lesson.
1) On these two commandments, said our Lord: "Hang all the law and the prophets."
2) Here was the answer to the Lawyer's question; regarding his neighbor.
3) Anyone needing your help is your neighbor!
4) Herein also is the truth of the: "golden rule." Jesus said: "Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets," Matthew 7:12.
5) Illustrate, The Law of Reciprocity. It appears these first two men have missed the mark! Let's see if our last traveler in this lesson seeming to be more promising.
III A CERTAIN: SAMARITAN HELPED HIM
A. But, a certain Samaritan. Luke wrote: "But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee," Luke 10:33-37. Notice the sequence of events... but a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed--
1. Came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him. I find it interesting that Jesus identifies every person in this story, but the "certain man that went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves... leaving him half dead," Luke 10:30. Notice, all these were identified:
a. The Priest.
b. The Levite.
c. The Samaritan.
d. But, not the "certain man." Was he a Jew, Gentile, or Samaritan? We do not know. Jesus speaks of him as a "certain man."
e. If we desired to investigate: we could find many of the characters in this story, including the innkeeper. But, the stranger, our neighbor, is not identified in this story. We will speak about this later in the lesson. Jesus now directs our attention to the hero in this story. Consider, he.....
2. Went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine.
3. Set him on his beast. He prepared the man for travel. He took him to the Holiday Inn. He took care of him. He nursed him all that day; and that night.
4. On the morrow when he departed: "Took out two pence and gave them to the host. And said unto him, take care of him, and whatsoever thou spendest more. When I come again, I will repay thee." He was a benevolent man as well.
5. B. W. Johnson wrote: "A certain Samaritan. The hereditary enemy of the Jews; despised and hated by the latter. "The Jews and Samaritans have no dealings" (John 4:9). If any man had an excuse for passing by a wounded Jew (if this is who the stranger was) ... it was the Samaritan. But he, unlike the Priest and Levite, had compassion. His compassion leads to action, self-denial, and inconvenience. He dresses the man's wounds, sets him on his beast, carries him to the inn, and left money for his care when he left. For ancient inns...Two pence was two days' wages, and there was (the) promise of more," Page 188.
B. The word Samaritan in Gr. is Samareítes, sam-ar-i'-tace; from a Samarite, i.e. inhabitant of Samaria:—Samaritan. Let's learn something about this Samaritan. Before we analyze his actions towards this stranger, let's know something about him. Notice:
1. Who were these Samaritans? They were the descendants of those carried into bondage by the Assyrians (General Sargon captured Samaria in 722 BC, taking 27,290 of its inhabitants into captivity).
2. These are people who had married strange women and worshiped strange gods while in Assyria. The Jews considered the Samaritans as dogs; and the dregs of their society.
3. But, Jesus referred to them with compassion, even as people who could show kindness and gratitude to others. Notice:
a. One of the ten lepers healed by Jesus was a Samaritan, Luke 17:11-19. He was a man of gratitude; the only man healed returned and gave thanks to the Lord for his cleansing. The other nine; were nowhere to be found, nor did they give thanks unto the Lord.
b. Now, this man was journeying from Jerusalem to Jericho. He was a Samaritan. He demonstrated compassion and goodwill to his neighbor. Jesus said: "He...came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him," Luke 10:32. Regarding compassion.....
1) W.E. Vine wrote: "Compassion, to have pity, a feeling of distress through the ills of others," is used of God's compassion, Rom. 9:15...To be moved as to one's inwards, to be moved with compassion, to yearn with compassion...as Christ was towards the multitude and towards individual sufferers, Matt. 9:36; (of the appeal of a father for a demon-possessed son); Luke 7:13; (of the Father in the parable of the Prodigal Son, Luke 15:20)," Page 661.
2) W.E. Vine wrote: "Mercy, to have mercy ("mercy"), to show kindness, by beneficence, or assistance," is translated as "have compassion" in Matt. 18:33 (KJV); Mark 5:19 and Jude 22," Page 661.
3) Compassion is a feeling we have when others are hurting. It moves us to action on behalf of others. Jesus was teaching this Lawyer and His disciples about their upcoming work and their future relationships with the Samaritan people.
a) Jesus showed compassion and mercy upon the Samaritans, as well as the Jews.
b) Philip's evangelistic work among the Samaritans, in Acts 8:5; Acts 8:12.
c) We must be compassionate and show mercy to everyone, regardless of their race, creed, color, or religion, or whatever might be their emergency or need. I wish I had some help! Amen, somebody. Is there a Samaritan in this house?
4) Mercy and compassion. The bible speaks of our need to show mercy; so that we might obtain mercy. Notice:
a) Jesus said: "Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy," Matthew 5:8; Luke 6:36.
b) James wrote: "For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath showed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment," James 2:13; Amos 5:24.
c) Micah wrote: "He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?" Micah 6:8; Hosea 6:6.
d) Conclusion: God desires that we do what is just; love mercy, give mercy and walk humbly before Him. Remember, he that does not show compassion or mercy unto others; shall not have mercy at the judgment. Notice the actions of the Samaritan towards his neighbor. Consider--
C. He rendered first aid to the stranger. The Lord now speaks to the love and concern this Samaritan had for the stranger, who fell among thieves; and was beaten, stripped of his clothing, robbed, and left beside the road half dead. Notice, the Samaritan--
1. Came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him. This is the difference that made the difference in this man's actions. We cannot get busy helping others: we, too, like the first two men, lack genuine compassion. Forgive us, Lord!
2. Went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine. He took action to stop the bleeding, protect the wounds, and treat for shock. These are the American Red Cross's "first lifesaving steps."
3. Set him on his beast. True brotherhood is tested; when it costs us something. Been some of us, we would say: "Don't put him in my car; I don't want any blood on my seats!"
4. Brought (took) him to the Holiday Inn. I'm reminded of the comfort and genuine hospitality I once enjoyed: in The Harris Day's Inn. This pertains to one of my many visits to preach and encourage one of the churches in Alabama. I spoke of it this family's generosity; in the sermon that Sunday morning. When you extend your help to the brethren, give to them your best. With such, God is well pleased.
D. He took care of the man. This man took care of the stranger. Consider also, the Samaritan--
1. Took care of him. He probably nursed him all that day and the entire night.
2. On the morrow when he prepared to depart:
a. Took out two pence and gave them to the host. Your help might cost you something. Our Lord's help cost Him, His life. What are you willing to share, to help a stranger in peril? He gave the innkeeper his American Express Card. (He did not leave home without it!)
b. And said unto him, take care of him, and whatsoever thou spendest more.
c. When I come again, I will repay thee. He further instructed the innkeeper to keep a tab on his future expenses; so he could refund him when he returned.
3. Summary. Know this; whatever you spend for the strangers, the needy, and the poor will be an investment, which the Lord will repay. You will not go unrewarded. And contrariwise, when you refuse to help others, your purse or wallet will be left wanting.
4. Conclusion: We now conclude this story. What does it all mean?
a. The Lord asks the Lawyer: "Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise," Luke 10:37. It was not the Priest or the Levite; instead, the Samaritan showed compassion and favor for the man on the road.
b. B. W. Johnson wrote: "Which of these three... proved neighbor? The stranger became the neighbor. So we are to be neighbors to all who need help. Christian love must know no narrow bounds of race or sect," Page 188.
5. Analysis of the Lord's conclusion. Consider,
a. First, what might the Lawyer be feeling right about now? How does he think about his countrymen, that these religious men did not take the time or show pity for this stranger to assist their neighbor?
b. Further, what does he feel now about the Samaritans, outcasts of the Jewish society? That it was he, who was willing to show favor unto a stranger, maybe a Jew. Jesus said: "He had compassion on him." Could the Lawyer have shown the same compassion for the Samaritan? If he was the neighbor in need? Could he now "go, and do likewise?"
c. Finally, what view does he now have about the Priest and Levite, men who were spiritual leaders in the Jewish religion? What example did they set regarding their behavior to their neighbor, a "stranger" or "foreigner," within the land?
6. Christian discipleship requires more. Jesus said: "Ye have heard that it was said, Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy: but I say unto you, love your enemies, and pray for them that persecute you; that ye may be sons of your Father who is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sendeth rain on the just and the unjust. For if ye love them, that love you, what rewards have ye? Do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do you more than others? Do not even the Gentiles the same? Ye, therefore, shall be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect," Matthew 5:34-48.
a. This was the issue the Lawyer was dealing with in his own life. He could love his Jewish neighbor as "himself." But found it difficult to even credit the Samaritan for his compassion and pity for the stranger. Jesus uncovered this problem when He told him: "Go, and thou do likewise," Luke 10:37.
b. The application of this story. The truth is contained in a response from the Lawyer's mouth. "Now tell me," saith Christ, "which of these three was a neighbor to him that fell among thieves: the Priest, the Levite, or the Samaritan? Which of these did what was required by the Law?"
1) The Lawyer did not answer: "Doubtless, the Samaritan;" but rather replied: "He that showed mercy on him." He could not even say, Samaritan. Only, "He that shewed mercy," or it was he that saved the stranger.
2) The Lord pressed the truth of his statement and said: "Go, and do thou likewise." The duties of such acts are mutually binding. The friends, brethren, neighbor are equally binding on both sides: if one party is bound, the other cannot be loose, as understood in all contracts. If a Samaritan does well, that helps a distressed stranger; indeed, the stranger does well if he in like manner helps a distressed Samaritan (Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible).
3) These kinds of acts are to be reciprocated. "And therefore go thou and do as the Samaritan did." Whenever an occasion is granted: to show mercy to those that need thy help, and do it freely, and with pity and compassion, though they are not of thy own Nation, profession, or faith or religious standing.
c. Let thy charity be first done before you boast of having kept the first or second commandment: "To love thy neighbor as thyself." This Lawyer valued himself much upon his learning and knowledge of the Law... but Christ taught him the more powerful lesson, from this Samaritan, and charged that he: "Go, and do like him." Be an imitator of this man, if thou would: "Be perfect and inherit eternal life," Luke 10:25; Matthew 19:16-22. Observe--
1) Paul to the Romans: "For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified," Romans 2:13.
2) Paul to the Galatians: "But that no man is justified by the Law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith. And the Law is not of faith: but, the man that doeth them shall live in them," Galatians 3:11-12.
3) James wrote: "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your selves...But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed," James 2:22-25.
d. It is the duty of every saint, in every situation, and according to his/her ability, to help, give aid, nurse, and relieve all; that are in distress, in peril, or need, Acts 11:28-30. We must be: "Doers of the word and work," and not just hearer ONLY. Let your faith work by love; out of a pure heart fervently, for thy neighbor, Galatians 5:6; 1 Peter 1:22.
E. Lesson's broader application. There are several problems of indifference that might cause some to behave unkindly to church members, to people in general within our cities, states, and throughout the Nation. They can be classed as social problems. To mention a few: they are family, cultural, political, and religious. Jesus knew the heart of this Lawyer. And he knows the heart of each one of us. Consider these problems; some might have with their neighbors--
1. First, family members. It is essential to address problems that might impact our family members in the church. Jesus met one of these problems head-on, when: "The mother of Zebedee's sons (James and John), came to Him with her sons...and ask that they be allowed to sit on his right hand and left in his glory. He replied…it is not for me to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared by my Father," Matthew 20:20-28. She desired favoritism of Jesus for her sons.
a. This request caused problems among the other disciples. Notice: "And when the ten heard this, they were moved with indignation against the two brothers," Matthew 20:26. Mother's be careful what ye ask of God, for your sons.
b. Paul had a problem with Barnabas over John Mark, a family member. There was great contention between Paul and Barnabas because of John. John departed from the work in Pamphylia, Acts 15:36-40. We cannot show partiality to family members!
c. We cannot be influenced by family members in the Lord's work. Showing partiality to family members can cause strife and confusion in the Body of Christ.
d. Illustrate: God's no Respecter of Person, James 2:1-10. To show, "partiality or respect of person ye sin, being exposed by the law as transgressors," James 2:9.
2. Further, cultural indifferences. Peter and other Jews had a problem of indifference over the Gentile saints because of the "men from James," Galatians 2:11-13. I said earlier in the lesson we would address this evil. Peter was guilty of "dissimulation or (hypocrisy)." Paul rebuked Peter to his face! Here was Peter's error as a leader:
a. He and other disciples withdrew themselves from the Gentiles and refused to eat with them while James and the others "of the circumcision" were in Antioch. the world's actions were influencing the apostle; rather than affecting the world by his actions. We must correct our cultural indifferences when they impede the work of God; and the healing of our Nation.
b. Paul withstood Peter to his face. We cannot allow social indifference, prejudices, and unchristian behavior to affect how we deal with each other in the church.
c. We must all walk upright according to the gospel of Christ.
d. When good people do not stand up against wrong and injustice; they become commonplace in the church, the workplace, and other parts of our society.
e. Paul wrote: "Let love be without dissimulation (hypocrisy)," Romans 12:9.
3. Next, political parties. Some hold their political differences closer to their hearts than the Lord. As Christians in America, we need to love God first, our neighbors, and then ourselves, Matthew 22:37-40. We must cherish God over political party affiliations and right over wrong in the church and everyday life affairs. Faith before Politics!
a. The recent 2018 election showed us that we are not addressing the real issues that face America as Americans. Politics plays a tremendous role in creating as well as correcting these kinds of problems. As ministers of Christ, we cannot be silent during this err of political confusion and dysfunction.
b. Political indifferences breed hatred and prejudices; that infects our country's national wellbeing. These attitudes prevail when good people remain silent! Indeed we can see these factions every day in the news surrounding the White House.
c. We need the Spirit of Christ back in the White House, in the Congress, and in the Courts, Romans 8:9; Romans 8:14. Political Persecution V. Religious Persecution!
d. Evangelical influences into the Nation's political system. This has become a great evil; this religious body right now affects the Nation's political system with their misguided beliefs. This type of interference caused many religious people to flee to America, to break free from religious persecutions.
e. Illustrate: Abortion versus human rights (Roe v. Wade, 410 U.S. 113 (1973)). The courts are being stacked with judges that are being influenced by evangelical views to overturn this landmark legislation. Remember the "separation of church and state?"
1) America is a diverse nation with all types of religious views.
2) We cannot permit one religious group to impose their views (abortion, homophobia, immigration, voter's rights, etc.) on the Nation.
3) We must push back on these types of political influences from all religious groups. There is too much evangelical hypocrisy in many assemblies throughout America. Religious leaders must stand with Christ and not with their parties.
4) The Nation's courts ought to be blind in their interpretation of the Laws and the Constitution. They must not be "bought by money or legislate for favors" in their judicial decisions. Our Nation's courts must "judge righteous judgment" in all things without partiality and respect of persons; in such God is well pleased, John 7:24.
4. Finally, religious divisions. "I am of Paul; I am of Apollos, I am of Cephas, I am of Christ," 1 Corinthians 1:10-15. Paul asked: "Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?" We must be careful not to elevate preachers or (baptizers) over Christ (into whom we were baptized). It is not who baptized us that is important, but into whom we were baptized – that is, into Jesus Christ, Galatians 3:26-27; Romans 6:3-7.
5. America, where are you? What kind of country have we become under this current Administration? That willingly:
a. "Shutteth up the bowels of its compassion against its neighbor; and find it easier 'to pass by on the other side?'"
b. No longer opens her arms to help the afflicted, the broken, the wounded, and the oppressed of the world.
c. No longer allow the Nation's beacon of hope, freedom, and liberty to welcome strangers to her shores. Have we forgotten her inscription?
6. Statue of Liberty. The inscription on the Statue of Liberty reads: "Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses, yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore, Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door."
a. The Statue of Liberty Inscription, "The New Colossus," was written by Emma Lazarus in 1883. Later made into a bronze plaque and placed inside the Statue of Liberty.
b. I pray that we return to this creed and welcome all that would come to the Shores of America. Let all Americans once again begin helping those seeking religious freedom, hope, and a better life; than that from which they are fleeing. As I now move to a conclusion, let's review what we have considered together—
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. A Certain: Priest Saw Him
2. A Certain: Levite Looked on Him
3. A Certain: Samaritan Helped Him
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we considered the Priest's actions, who came by the incident scene by chance. The Lord says: "And when he saw him (the victim), he passed by on the other side," Luke 10:31. I use this word victim because the Priest's duties were to offer sacrifices for the people's sins. He must have been too busy with these duties and rites at the altar of God; in offering (the blood of bulls and goats), on behalf of the people, to allot any time on behalf of this stranger. Can we become so harden and callous in the performance of our duties; we forget why it is we are doing them? How many victims have we seen, and we too just "passed by on the other side?"
2. Second, we discussed the behavior of the Levite, who looked on him, and also passed by on the other side," Luke 10:32. The Levites were those who, not being of Aaron's family; for whom alone the priesthood was reserved, served as assistants to the priests. It was their duty to keep the sacred utensils and the temple clean, provide the holy loaves, open and shut the temple's gates, sing the sacred hymns in the temple, and do many other things. He, too, was so busy with his duties; he could not justify the time to help this stranger. Can we become too busy in our religion, ignore our entire mission in life, rescue the perishing, or give aid to a stranger in need?
3. Lastly, we investigated the behavior of the Samaritan, who: "Came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him. And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his beast, and brought him to an inn (the Holiday Inn), and took care of him... I will repay thee," Luke 10:33-35. We now see the real meaning of the story. Everyone in the story was identified by the Lord, except the "man left in peril" or our "neighbor." Jesus asks the Lawyer and us this question: "Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves?" And he said He that shewed mercy on him." Let us hear the Lord's charge: "Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise," Luke 10:34-37.
C. Invitation. Present the plan of salvation, H.B.R.C.B.
D. Exhortation.
E. Motivation.
References:
1. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible, by Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
2. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
3. Clarke’s Commentary on the New Testament, Volume 6A, by Adam Clarke, SAGE Software, Albany, Oregon, Copyright 1996.
4. W.E. Vine's, “Complete Expository Dictionary of Old & New Testament Words,” by W. E. Vine, Merrill F. Unger, William White, Jr., published in 1940; without copyright.
We thank these prolific writers for their wisdom and insight into the Holy Scriptures. We acknowledge here our consultation of their work, in this lesson.
Lesson reworked 5/5/2021.
