“What the Samaritan did NOT do is just as striking as what he did.”
You know the story: an expert in Judaic law asks Jesus what is God’s expectation, the “greatest” commandment?
Jesus replies with “Love God and love your neighbor as yourself. This prompts the follow-up, “Who is my neighbor?” and Jesus tells the story, classically known as “the Good Samaritan.”
In the parable, the Samaritan stops by the man in need, offers compassion, bandages his wounds, gives him a ride, takes him to a nearby inn, and pays for his room, board, and food.
He did nothing that we would call “spiritual.”
He did not…
Pray for him,
Anoint him with oil,
Lead him in a sinner’s prayer,
Quote a scripture,
Take him to church,
Prophesy over him, etc.
Yet, Jesus said that the Samaritan’s practical actions were what eternal life looks like.
This will mess with your theology.
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