The Mission To Samaria Series

God transformed John from a fighter into a lover. And by his grace and mercy, God still changes people today too.

Conclusion

Therefore, having analyzed the account of the mission to Samaria as set forth in Luke 9:51-56, we should offer the message of God’s mercy.

How did Jesus change the world? Historian Rodney Stark argues that there was one huge factor that helped capture the attention of the ancient world – Christianity’s revolutionary emphasis on mercy. Stark writes:

In the midst of the squalor, misery, illness, and anonymity of ancient cities, Christianity provided an island of mercy and security. . . . It started with Jesus. . . .

In contrast, in the pagan world, and especially among the philosophers, mercy was regarded as a character defect and pity as a pathological emotion: because mercy involves providing unearned help or relief, it is contrary to justice. . . . [Thus] humans must learn “to curb the impulse [to show mercy]”; “the cry of the undeserving for mercy” must go “unanswered.” “[Showing mercy] was a defect of character unworthy of the wise and excusable only in those who have not yet grown up.”

This was the moral climate of Jesus’ day. Jesus taught that Christianity is completely counter-cultural. We do not respond to rejection with revenge. Instead, we who have received mercy from God offer mercy to others who have not yet received it. That is the message of the gospel.

Do you know the mercy of God in your life? He offers you forgiveness and love and hope and eternal life and abundant life. In order to receive it, simply repent of your sin and believe in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Do not delay.

And, if you have received God’s mercy in your life, give yourself to sharing with others how they too can receive God’s mercy in their lives. Amen.