WHO IS MY BELOVED NEIGHBOUR?
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Luke 10:30–37
"And 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.
And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.
And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.
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 own 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.
Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour 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."
Supporting Texts: Matthew 22:37–39; Romans 13:9–10; 1 John 4:20–21; Galatians 6:10; James 2:8
INTRODUCTION:
In a world that is increasingly divided by race, class, religion, and status, the question “Who is my neighbour?” is more relevant than ever. Jesus addressed this question not with a direct answer, but with a story that challenged social norms and religious assumptions. The parable of the Good Samaritan teaches us that being a neighbour is less about proximity or similarity and more about compassion and action.
In the parable, the religious leaders passed by the wounded man, while the Samaritan – someone considered an outsider – became the true neighbour. This shows that true love knows no boundaries and that our responsibility to others goes beyond social or ethnic lines. We are called to love not only those who look like us or agree with us but also those we might naturally avoid.
This teaching reveals the heart of God. He calls us to embody love and mercy in practical ways. By looking deeply into this passage, we can understand how to become beloved neighbours to those around us – and how to recognise those who are truly living as neighbours according to God’s definition.
1. A NEIGHBOUR IS ONE WHO SHOWS COMPASSION
Being a neighbour begins with the heart.
a) Compassion is the mark of godly character.
It reflects God's own heart of mercy (Luke 6:36).
b) Indifference is not an option in the kingdom of God.
The priest and Levite failed to act, revealing spiritual emptiness (1 John 3:17).
c) True compassion moves us to action.
The Samaritan didn't just feel; he helped (James 2:15–16).
d) We are commanded to love others as ourselves.
Love fulfils the law (Romans 13:10).
Biblical Example: Jesus' compassion for the hungry crowd (Matthew 15:32).
2. A NEIGHBOUR IS NOT LIMITED BY RELIGIOUS OR SOCIAL LABELS
God’s definition of neighbour goes beyond human boundaries.
a) Social status does not define love.
The Samaritan was despised, yet showed mercy (John 4:9).
b) Religious activity does not equal righteousness.
The priest and Levite’s actions expose hypocrisy (Matthew 23:23).
c) Love breaks through cultural prejudices.
We must see people through God’s eyes (Galatians 3:28).
d) God uses unexpected people to teach spiritual truths.
The Samaritan became the hero of the story (Luke 10:33).
Biblical Example: Peter learns to accept Gentiles (Acts 10:28, 34–35).
3. A NEIGHBOUR TAKES RISKS FOR THE SAKE OF OTHERS
Loving others often involves inconvenience and sacrifice.
a) Compassionate love costs time and resources.
The Samaritan delayed his journey to help (Luke 10:34).
b) True love is selfless and not transactional.
He expected no reward (Matthew 6:3–4).
c) Love may be risky or misunderstood.
Helping others may expose us to danger or criticism (John 15:13).
d) We are called to bear one another's burdens.
This fulfils the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2).
Biblical Example: Esther risked her life for her people (Esther 4:16).
4. A NEIGHBOUR INVESTS IN THE WELL-BEING OF OTHERS
Real love doesn’t just do the minimum – it goes the extra mile.
a) The Samaritan gave his best care.
He bound wounds, gave oil and wine, and paid for lodging (Luke 10:34–35).
b) He made provision for continued help.
He ensured the man would be cared for beyond his presence (Luke 10:35).
c) Love thinks long-term.
It's not a one-time act but a lifestyle (Philippians 2:4).
d) Our generosity reflects God’s nature.
God always gives more than enough (2 Corinthians 9:8).
Biblical Example: The early church shared all things in common (Acts 4:34–35).
5. A NEIGHBOUR OBEYS GOD’S COMMAND TO LOVE
The command to love is not optional.
a) Loving your neighbour is the second greatest commandment.
It stands alongside loving God (Matthew 22:39).
b) Failing to love others reveals a lack of true faith.
Love is the proof of discipleship (1 John 4:20).
c) Obedience to this command brings blessing.
Mercy shown will be mercy received (Matthew 5:7).
d) The world will know us by our love.
Our love sets us apart (John 13:35).
Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan as a model of obedience to God's law of love (Luke 10:37).
CONCLUSION:
Being a beloved neighbour is not about proximity, race, or religion—it is about love in action. The story of the Good Samaritan challenges us to examine our hearts and broaden our definition of who qualifies as a neighbour. Jesus calls us not only to feel love but to show it through selfless and practical actions.
We must ask ourselves daily: Am I a true neighbour? Do I reflect God's compassion in how I treat others? The call to “Go and do likewise” is a personal mandate to live out the gospel with mercy, sacrifice, and love.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, teach me to love others selflessly and sincerely.
2. Father, break every barrier of prejudice in my heart.
3. Give me compassion that moves me to action, not just words.
4. Help me to be a true neighbour to those in need around me.
5. Lord, empower me to obey Your command to love consistently.
