Podcasts about good samaritan luke

We live in a world that envisions freedom as the absence of obligations. But it turns out that our deepest freedom comes from embracing duty and responsibility. In this sermon we explore Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 11), where Jesus shows us the human goodness of fulfilling our duties and obligations toward our neighbors.

Are you exhausted from trying to "earn" God's love? Do you feel like you're constantly living under a checklist of religious rules, hoping you've done enough to be accepted?If you are a young adult in the Pinetown or Upper Highway area searching for authentic Christianity, this message is a game-changer. Religion tells us to work harder, but the Gospel tells us the work is already finished.In this message, Steve Wheeler dives deep into the famous story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10). But this isn't just a lesson about helping people in need—it's a massive revelation about Law vs. Grace, breaking down religious prejudice, and understanding how God actually sees you.In this video, we explore:The impossible standard of the Old Covenant (and why Jesus elevated the Law).Why "loving your neighbour as yourself" backfires if you don't know how God loves you.The danger of religious loopholes and cultural worldviews.A localised look at the Good Samaritan (including a very real scenario about walking through Pinetown!).The ultimate twist: Jesus is the Good Samaritan who crossed the street to rescue you when religion walked right past.You cannot earn what has already been freely given. It's time to step out of the Covenant of Works and into the Covenant of Grace.If you are seeking real, transformative truth in KZN, hit the Subscribe button to join our community. Let us know in the comments: How does knowing Jesus as the "Good Samaritan" change the way you view your relationship with Him today?

The Good Samaritan - Luke 10:25-37 by Glasgow Grace

Who is my neighbor?It's one of the most famous questions ever asked Jesus. But instead of giving a definition, Jesus told a story that has challenged hearts for over 2,000 years.In Week 5 of our True Fiction series, Pastor Chris Hoyt unpacks the parable of The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) and reveals that this story isn't just about helping strangers. It's about learning to see people the way Jesus sees them.Love doesn't stop at compassion.Love crosses the road.But the greatest surprise comes at the end of the story.Before we could ever become the Good Samaritan... we were the wounded traveler. Broken, helpless, and in desperate need of mercy. The good news of the Gospel is that Jesus crossed the greatest road imaginable to rescue us.When you've experienced that kind of love, you can't help but share it with others.Scripture: Luke 10:25-37

Bishop Jim's insightful messages help others find THEIR METRON through M~otivation E~nlightenment T~ranscendence R~enewal O~utreach and N~etworking Learn more: www.bishinthenow.com Follow Jim Swilley on Youtube to see the videos live Sundays at 11:11 am – https://www.youtube.com/bishinthenow   Technical Note Note: We experienced a brief technical issue at the beginning of this week’s livestream that affected the first few minutes of the broadcast. Thankfully, we were able to resolve it before Bishop Jim got into the heart of this week’s message, so you won’t miss any of the main teaching. Thank you for your patience and understanding! Summary In this week’s message, Bishop Jim Swilley continued his series on The Spirit of Spontaneity, exploring how spiritual maturity is often revealed through our ability to recognize and trust the “still small voice.” Rather than expecting God to communicate through dramatic signs and miracles, Jim challenged listeners to become quiet enough to hear the subtle nudges of intuition, wisdom, and inner knowing. Through personal stories, biblical examples, and practical insights, he illustrated that the deepest guidance often comes through spontaneous thoughts, gentle impressions, and moments we might otherwise dismiss. The invitation is to become present, attentive, flexible, and willing to move with the flow of Spirit rather than trying to force outcomes. Main Takeaways Listen for the Still Small Voice One of the central themes was that God’s guidance becomes quieter as we mature spiritually. Rather than loud warnings or dramatic interventions, Spirit often speaks through subtle impressions that require attentiveness. Scripture: 1 Kings 19:11-13 – Elijah hears God in the “still small voice.” Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.” Spiritual Maturity Recognizes Subtlety Children often require loud correction, but mature believers learn to recognize gentle nudges. Jim suggested that when we continually ignore those subtle promptings, we often create unnecessary hardship for ourselves. Meditation Creates Space for Wisdom Rather than constantly speaking to God, Jim emphasized learning to become quiet enough to hear what has already been placed within us. Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7 Psalm 1:2 Joshua 1:8 Trust Your Spirit Before You Overthink Many of the stories Jim shared involved spontaneous thoughts or impressions that later proved significant—from simple desires like Raisinets to life-altering moments that likely prevented accidents. His point: Sometimes your first thought is your spirit speaking before your mind starts arguing. Detach from Outcomes Jim compared intention to giving someone flowers. Once you’ve offered them, you don’t continue squeezing or controlling them. He connected this principle to: James 1 The principle of releasing intentions without obsessing over outcomes. Pay Attention to Divine Synchronicities Whether it was finding unexpected Raisinets, visiting the roof of a historic building only days after mentioning it, or repeated encounters with a cardinal while renovating his parents’ home, Jim encouraged listeners to notice meaningful patterns rather than dismissing them as coincidence. Prayer Isn’t About Convincing God Jim challenged the idea that louder or longer prayers produce better results. Instead, mature prayer becomes agreement with what God has already established. Scriptures discussed: Luke 11 Luke 18 Philippians 4:6 Matthew 6 Keep Knocking…But Not Necessarily on the Same Door When Jesus taught persistence, Jim suggested the deeper principle isn’t endlessly pounding on one closed door. Instead: Keep seeking until you discover the door that actually opens. Relationships Teach Us How God Communicates Long-term relationships eventually develop communication that barely needs words. Jim suggested our relationship with God matures the same way. The Wind Cannot Be Controlled The Holy Spirit is dynamic—not formulaic. Scriptures: John 3:8 Acts 2:1-4 The Spirit moves where it wills, reminding us that God cannot be reduced to religious systems or predictable formulas. The Bible Points Beyond Itself Jim explored several biblical examples showing that Scripture itself often overturns assumptions made from earlier passages. Examples included: Ruth the Moabite (Ruth) Job from Uz (Job 1:1) The Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8) The Good Samaritan (Luke 10) Peter and Cornelius (Acts 10) His emphasis was that the Spirit consistently moves people toward greater inclusion, openness, and compassion. Quote of the Week “The still small voice is quiet… and it usually only speaks to you once.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Scriptures Referenced 1 Kings 19:11-13 Psalm 46:10 Psalm 1:2 Joshua 1:8 James 1 Philippians 4:6-7 Luke 11 Luke 18 John 3:8 Acts 2:1-4 Acts 8 Acts 10 Proverbs 25:11 Deuteronomy 23 Ruth Job 1:1 Luke 10 Matthew 6 Final Thought The Spirit of spontaneity isn’t about being impulsive—it’s about becoming so present that you recognize the quiet movements of God before your mind talks you out of them. As Bishop Jim reminded us, spiritual maturity isn’t measured by how loudly we pray, but by how deeply we listen. Often, the guidance we’ve been asking for has already been whispered—we simply need to become still enough to hear it.  

PARABLES: Jesus The Storyteller The Good Samaritan; Luke 10:25-37 live streamed on July 19, 2026

Saturday, June 27, 2026

Speaker: Andrew SercombeThe Good Samaritan / Luke 10:25-379 AM, 21/06/2026======================Visit us online at newhope.net.au.instagram.com/newhopemelbfacebook.com/NewHopeMelb

The Good Samaritan | Luke 10:30-3530 In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 32 So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,' he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.'

Saturday, June 20, 2026

We were delighted to have Rev. Andrew Rooney with us from Compassion UK. He spoke on Luke 10 and the Parable of the Good Samaritan. First preached: 14th June 2026. Speaker: Andrew Rooney.

Tim White The Good Samaritan Luke 10:25-37 (2)

Most people know the story of the Good Samaritan. Few understand why Jesus actually told it.When a religious expert asked Jesus how to inherit eternal life, Jesus responded with one of the most famous parables ever told. But this story is about far more than kindness, morality, or being a good neighbor.In this message, we explore:• Why Jesus used parables to reveal the Kingdom of God• The dangerous desire to justify ourselves before God• What the Good Samaritan teaches about true compassion• Why we cannot save ourselves• How Jesus is the Savior who came to rescue us when we could not rescue ourselvesThe Good Samaritan is not ultimately a story about becoming a better person. It is a story that points us to the mercy, grace, and compassion of Christ.Scripture: Luke 10:25-37Learn more about us:https://www.tulsabible.org/TBC - To know God, and make Him known.(Matt. 28. 18-20)

05.31.26 - Tim Hedburg Covenant Pastor

Tim White The Good Samaritan Luke 10:25-37 (1)

The parable is triggered by a question from a lawyer of the Law of Moses: “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” Bible teaching by Alex Vaca on the 24th May 2026.

Pastor Luke Simmons continues our series, “The Blessed Life,” by teaching on Jesus' words, “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy” (Matthew 5:7). In this message, Luke explains what mercy is, why it is central to God's character and to our own experience of salvation, and how followers of Christ are called to live merciful lives.  Looking at parables like the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18) and the Good Samaritan (Luke 10), we see that mercy is compassion in action—expressed through forgiveness and practical care for those who are hurting. As people who have received an unpayable debt of mercy from God, we are invited to extend that same mercy to others.00:00 - Introduction07:19 - What does it mean to be merciful?10:37 - Why are Christ's people to be merciful?19:31 - What does it look like to be merciful?**HOW TO FIND US*** SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YouTube CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@IronwoodChurchAZFACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/ironwoodchurchaz/ INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/ironwood.church/WEBSITE https://www.ironwoodchurch.org/

Sending Out the Blessings! "Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." Matthew 28:19 As we about to step into the new month, it's a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the countless ways God has moved in our lives. Like a gardener who prepares the soil for spring sowing, we can cultivate our spirits, readying ourselves to share the abundant blessings we've received. When we engage with others, whether through small acts of kindness or grand gestures, we sow seeds that can flourish and grow into a beautiful harvest. Think of the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), who didn't hesitate to help a stranger in need. His heart was filled with compassion, and he modeled what it means to truly love our neighbors. Imagine how transformative it would be if we all committed to being Good Samaritans in our daily lives — offering our time, our talents, and our resources. Each greeting, each smile, each act of service can ripple out like stones cast into a pond, reaching far beyond our immediate surroundings. 2 Corinthians 9:10-11 says, "Now he who supplies seed to the Sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us, your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God." In 2 Corinthians 9:10-11, we are reminded that God supplies seed to the Sower. Just as a farmer trusts the earth to yield a harvest, so too can we trust that our efforts to bless others will bear fruit. With every kind word or action, we are participating in a divine exchange, where the more we give, the more we receive — in joy, fulfillment, and spiritual abundance. As we move forward together, let us keep our hearts open and our hands ready to serve. Together, we can weave a tapestry of kindness that reflects God's glory in our communities. Remember Matthew 28:19-20, where we're called to make disciples of all nations. So this coming month, let's take that command to heart. Whether through sharing your faith or simply offering encouragement, you have the power to affect lives around you. Amen. Proverbs 11:25 says, "Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered." Amen. Prayer for the Day! Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessings You've poured into our lives. Help us recognize the opportunities to share these gifts with others. May our actions bring hope, joy, and encouragement to those around us. In Jesus name, we pray. Amen.

Pastor Rick DeMichele

Hope Presbyterian Church is a new church in New Braunfels, TX, seeking to take the good news of Jesus Christ to this historic and growing city. We meet every Sunday at 10 at New Braunfels Christian Academy, 995 Mission Hills Drive, New Braunfels 78130. Come join us!

Hope Presbyterian Church is a new church in New Braunfels, TX, seeking to take the good news of Jesus Christ to this historic and growing city. We meet every Sunday at 10 at New Braunfels Christian Academy, 995 Mission Hills Drive, New Braunfels 78130. Come join us!

In this first message of our Parables of Grace series, we revisit one of the most familiar stories Jesus ever told—the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37).But what if we've been asking the wrong question?When a lawyer asks Jesus, “Who is my neighbor?” he's really asking where the line is—who qualifies for his time, compassion, and responsibility. Jesus responds with a story that doesn't just redefine “neighbor.” It reframes the entire conversation.This sermon explores:What Jesus meant by “eternal life” (and why it's not just about life after death)How status, identity, and tribal thinking shrink our worldWhy the priest and Levite aren't villains—but mirrorsHow grace begins when we expand our definition of who belongsThe Good Samaritan isn't just about helping someone in a ditch. It's about waking up to the kind of life that “outruns death”—the life of the age to come—starting right now.If you've ever wondered where you draw the line around compassion… this story invites you to move it.—

Brian Priebe | Executive Pastor | February 22, 2026 Referenced Scripture: Isaiah 42:1-4a, Luke 4:18-21, Luke 10:29b, Matthew 25:42-46 Reflection Questions:1. What's one thing that stood out to you from the sermon and why? 2. How would people close to you rate your protection of the vulnerable on a scale of 1-10? 3. What motivates you to protect the vulnerable? Can you share an experience of protecting the vulnerable that was meaningful to you? 4. What are Biblical examples of Jesus protecting the vulnerable? 5. Do you find that protecting the vulnerable comes to you naturally? Why or Why not? What things make it challenging for you? 6. Brian's focal point was that Jesus sought to bring justice to earth by protecting the vulnerable. Do you agree or disagree? Why? 7. Read Matthew 25:31-46. What differences do you see between how the sheep and the goats are described in the parable? 8. Are you naturally bent more like the sheep or the goats? What would it take in your life to serve more like the sheep than the goats? 9 What would the church look like if everyone took the sheeps posture of protecting the vulnerable or helping those in need? 10. Brian referenced the Good Samaritan (Luke 10) sacrificed his comfort, time and money to protect the vulnerable. Which of those is hardest for you to sacrifice and why? Which is easiest for you to sacrifice? What's your next step? * Connect: We'd love to connect with you! Fill out our Connect Card to receive more information, have us pray for you, or to ask us any questions: http://journeybozeman.com/connectcard * Connect: Get your children connected to our children's ministry, Base Camp: https://journeybozeman.com/children * Connect: Our Student Ministry is for High School and Middle School students: https://journeybozeman.com/students * Give: Want to worship through giving and support the ministry of Journey Church: https://journeybozeman.com/give * Gather: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneyChurchBozeman * Gather: Download our app: https://journeybozeman.com/app * Gather: Join our Facebook Group to stay connected throughout the week: https://facebook.com/groups/JourneyChurchBozeman  Chapters (00:00:00) - What Do You Do About A Homeless Person's Sign?(00:02:04) - What Does It Mean to Be a Christian?(00:11:00) - The Parable of the Good Samaritan(00:17:44) - Jesus on Protecting the Vulnerable(00:21:15) - Examples of People Who Protect the Vulnerable(00:27:36) - Count the Cost of what it Takes to Protect the Vulnerable(00:33:55) - God's call to help the vulnerable(00:35:40) - All About It

Rev. Derek Zeyl, Senior Pastor

In the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37), Jesus challenges the way we define love and compassion. The question isn't who qualifies as my neighbor—it's what kind of neighbor am I becoming. This message invites us to examine our hearts and reflect on how Christ-like our love really is. Jesus reminds us that anyone in need is our neighbor, and following Him means moving toward mercy, not away from inconvenience.

Jesus is clear that no amount of good works will be enough to earn eternal life. Only a perfect person is able to inherit eternal life. The bad news for us is that we are not perfect. The good news is Christ lived a perfect life and he is willing to give us his perfection if we repent and put our trust in him. Jesus also teaches the lawyer the kind of love that he requires of his followers, which is sacrificial love. That is how every Christian ought to be loving the people around them, just like the good Samaritan.

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The parable of the Good Samaritan is another popular parable of Jesus that often gets overlooked. In this story, Jesus describes a Jewish man in need on the side of the road. Religious experts and the “spiritually mature” pass him by, but a Samaritan, one of the most despised people to the Jews, stops to help him. In our lives today, we can be tempted to simply pass by those whom God is calling us to love and serve. We're either too busy, we see them as too bad, or their situations are too broken for us to reach out in love. Like the man Jesus tells this story too, we can be caught asking “who exactly is my neighbor?” rather than “who will I be a neighbor to?” But by asking this question, we can begin to allow Jesus to transform us into people who are truly spiritually mature, people fully capable of loving and serving those around us.

"In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with faithful Watermark member, Jesus sends out the 72 in Luke 10 and tells them not to worry about money or comfort. How have you seen God provide when you stepped out in faith? 3. In the story of Mary and Martha, Jesus praises Mary for sitting at His feet. Over the years, how have you learned to choose ‘the better portion'? 4. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10), Jesus flips the question from ‘Who is my neighbor?' to ‘What kind of neighbor am I?' Why do you think that shift matters so much?"

Pastor Ricky Hemme

Pastor Luke Simmons delivers an insightful sermon in our "Jesus Stories" series, exploring the parable of the Good Samaritan from Luke 10. In this engaging message, Pastor Luke examines the story's themes of mercy, compassion, and what it truly means to be a neighbor. He draws parallels between the historical context of the parable and our contemporary lives, challenging us to overcome our own biases and embody the kind of sacrificial love Jesus modeled. Discover how this well-known parable aligns with our pursuit of the "good life" as defined by Jesus, encouraging us to live according to God's kingdom values rather than the kingdoms of the earth. Join us as we delve into the heart of what it means to love God and others wholeheartedly.00:00 - Introduction5:29 - The Prompt14:49 - The Parable**HOW TO FIND US***SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YouTube CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@IronwoodChurchAZFACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/ironwoodchurchaz/INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/ironwood.church/WEBSITE https://www.ironwoodchurch.org/

In this episode,  Alex Watkins, David Tooley, TJ Renfro, and Keith Christopher engage in a thoughtful and challenging conversation about what it truly means to love God and love people—especially those we might view as outsiders. Drawing from the parable of the Good Samaritan, they explore how easy it can be to make excuses that prevent us from living out the radical love Jesus calls us to. Through Scripture, personal reflection, and honest discussion, they invite listeners to consider how to break down barriers and embody compassion in everyday life. This episode is a convicting yet hopeful reminder that love knows no boundaries.   ---   This episode of The Beyond Sunday Podcast explores the sermon The Good Samaritan | Luke 10:29–37. In this striking parable, Jesus challenges our understanding of neighborly love by showing mercy across social and cultural divides. Join us as we reflect on what it means to love without limits, confront our excuses, and follow Christ's call to extend compassion—even to those we might least expect.   Submit a question - bit.ly/BeyondSundayQuestions

What does it really mean to be a "Good Samaritan?"   ---    Jesus told stories to help anyone willing to listen better understand life in the Kingdom of God. These stories meet us where we are and take us to deeper places in our faith. Join us as we listen to Jesus' stories and ask Him to help us grow.    Sermon Notes: http://bible.com/events/49496757 Submit a Question: bit.ly/BeyondSundayQuestions

September 17, 2025

Welcome to the Grace in Focus podcast. Today, Bob Wilkin and Ken Yates are continuing their exploration of various “Tough Texts” with the Parable of the Good Samaritan. Does this parable argue that works are necessary to make it into the kingdom of heaven? Please listen to this and every episode of the Grace in

Jesus never seemed in a hurry, even when crowds demanded His attention. Drawing from the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37), we'll unpack how formation happens in our margins—not our schedules. Living a Spirit-led life means being interruptible. One of our kingdom qualities is being an unhurried friend, and this passage challenges us to consider who our friend is, the same way that Jesus challenged first-century people with their definition of neighbor. Connect with us | Text Us: (650)600-0402

Worship - August 10, 2025 “The Parable of the Good Samaritan” - Luke 10:25-37Elder George Flanagan

Jerry Jones unpacks the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37) to show what it truly means to love others as Jesus loves us. Jerry encourages us to pray for opportunities, build relationships with those far from God, and step out of our comfort zones to make a difference—one person at a time. This message is a reminder that evangelism starts with simple, everyday acts of love.

Join Us for Worship: Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM https://www.flourishinggrace.org/plan-your-visit In this powerful message from our ongoing series in the Gospel of Luke, Pastor Benjer McVeigh leads us through one of the most familiar — and dangerously misunderstood — teachings of Jesus: the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37). But before we tune out with a “been there, heard that” mindset, Benjer challenges us to slow down, lean in, and let the Word do surgery on our souls. What if we've misunderstood this parable all along? What if the point isn't about identifying who our neighbor is — but realizing we are the neighbor God has sent? This message begins by confronting the deceptively small definition of “neighbor” held by the expert in the law, a man who — like many of us — sought to justify himself by asking Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” But Jesus doesn't answer with a list of who qualifies. Instead, He flips the lawyer's question on its head and tells a story where the most unlikely character — a Samaritan, despised by Jews in that time — becomes the model of true neighborly love. As Benjer unpacks the cultural and religious background of the text, he reveals that the priest and Levite in the story weren't merely callous — they were likely busy with temple duties, constrained by religious expectations. Yet their roles, deeply tied to the law, couldn't produce the compassion needed in the moment. It is the Samaritan — the outsider, the one least expected — who sees, stops, and sacrifices. He is moved by compassion, not convenience. He loves with open hands, at great risk and great cost to himself. And this, Jesus says, is what it means to be a neighbor. The message digs deeper, applying this radical vision of love to our daily lives. Who have we disqualified from being our neighbor? Who have we labeled in such a way that excuses us from loving them? Whether it's someone we disagree with politically, someone whose lifestyle we don't understand, or someone we believe “deserves” the consequences they're facing — we are reminded that the teaching of Jesus leaves no room for exclusion. We don't get to decide who deserves love. We simply get to extend it, because Jesus first loved us. And the message gets personal. Benjer shares how a group of teenagers at church camp, willing to sit under the Word of God with seriousness and humility, stirred his own heart. Their willingness to listen, respond, and be transformed by Scripture became the catalyst for this week's call: to slow down, stop crossing to the other side of the road, and live as the kind of neighbor Jesus modeled. By the end, the parable turns into a mirror. It's not just a story about someone else. It's a story about us. And if we take it seriously — if we dare to pray the dangerous prayer, “God, who are you calling me to be a neighbor to today?” — we might discover that Jesus has already answered. He calls us not to love from a distance or with conditions, but to love incarnationally. To see, to stop, to bind up wounds, to take risks, to pay costs, to walk with the hurting until they heal. This is the call to become a people — and a church — marked by the extravagant compassion of Jesus. A church where no label can override the title “neighbor.” A church that reflects the Good Samaritan who saw us lying in the road, broken and far from hope — and didn't pass by. Instead, He stopped. He loved. And He gave everything.

In this week's ALIVE reflection, Fr. Jonathan Meyer breaks open the well-known Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37). We've all heard the story—but are we truly living it?   Jesus challenges us to stop crossing to the other side of the road and start stepping into the mess of others' lives with compassion. From hospitals to laws, the legacy of the Good Samaritan is everywhere… but the call is personal.  

Sermon June 29 - Good Samaritan: Luke 10:25-37 by Sunnybrook Christian Church

I want to begin by saying that God has put each of us who are Christ-followers in this time, in this place in history, as we read in Esther, “for such a time as this.” So, we must first see this as an opportunity, privilege, and blessing to be part of God's plan for this time. It's no accident that we are living in this culture. Now, here's my first suggestion for sharing the gospel with people who don't care: Share your life. If anyone is going to be open to the gospel, it will be because they sense we are real people and we really care about them. Don't you hate those cold calls you get trying to sell you something? Usually, they try to sound so friendly and make you think they really care about you personally when they're selling a new cable system or whatever. But no matter how slick their presentation may be, you know they don't know you and they don't really care about you. They're just trying to make a sale. If we come off that way when we talk about our faith in Jesus Christ, it simply won't work. In reaching the people in Thessalonica, the Apostle Paul wrote that: we dared to tell you this gospel in spite of strong opposition. For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you (1 Thessalonians 2:2-3). He was facing very similar circumstances there as we do here, and he made it known that he was sharing the gospel with them because he cared for them. His motivation was transparent and pure. There was no hidden agenda with him. He further wrote: We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us (1 Thessalonians 2:8). When people believe we are sharing our faith in Jesus Christ with them because they are dear to us and that we are sharing not only our faith, but our lives with them, then there's hope that they will begin to believe the gospel is relevant, real, and worthy of consideration. So, if there are some people in your life right now who just simply don't seem to care about things of God, about hearing the truth of the gospel, don't be discouraged and don't give up. Share your life with them and let them know you care about them personally. That is a big step one in sharing the gospel with people who don't care. Here's another suggestion that can be powerful—tell stories. I never cease to be amazed at the power of storytelling. Jesus used parables almost exclusively in his short ministry on earth. That should give us the first clue that storytelling is an effective way of sharing truth because you and I will listen to a story, give it our full attention, and remember it better than anything else. Stories stick with you. Stories from the Bible are, of course, very powerful, so the more familiar you are with the stories of Scripture, the more you can tell them to others. For example, suppose you have a friend who is grieving over a wayward son or daughter. You could at an appropriate time tell them the story of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32) and encourage them to believe that there is hope for their child, too. Or if you're in a discussion about social issues, helping the poor, homeless people, or something similar, you could tell the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). You don't have to read from the Bible; just tell the stories of the Bible in your own words. I think of a friend, Kate, who spent five years in Afghanistan in a culture totally opposed to the gospel. She was very effective at sharing the gospel in that environment. Besides loving the people and caring about them, she also found that telling the stories of the Bible was the best way possible to share truth with them. Time and again God opened a door for her to share a Bible story. The women listened and learned, and many came to saving faith. Keep in mind it is not your job to win people to Christ. Only the Holy Spirit can do that.

Topics: Parables, The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32), Grace in The Prodigal Son, The Older Brother in Luke 15:25–30, The Father's Heart in Luke 15, The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30–37), Jesus as The Samaritan, Law and Grace (Luke 10:27–28), Religion Fails (Luke 10:31–32), The Sower in Matthew 13:3–9, The Seed and Soil (Matthew 13:19–23), Hardened Hearts in Matthew 13:15, Spiritual Hearing in Matthew 13:9, The Lost Sheep (Luke 15:4–7), Israel as The Lost Sheep in Matthew 10:6, The Ninety-Nine (Luke 15:7), Joy in Heaven (Luke 15:7), The Ten Virgins in Matthew 25:1–13, Oil and the Spirit (Matthew 25:4), Shut Door in Matthew 25:10–12, Judgment (Matthew 25:13), Parables to Israel in Matthew 13:11, The Word as Logon, Unfruitful Soil (Matthew 13:22), Jesus' Audience in Luke 15:1–2, Pharisees and Scribes in Luke 15, The Law Exposed, Virgins Not in Matthew 25, Gospel ClaritySupport the showSign up for Matt's free daily devotional! https://mattmcmillen.com/newsletter

Reading Luke 10:25-37 and the famous parable of the Good Samaritan, where Jesus responds to a lawyer attempting to test Him by showing the lawyer he's not as good as he thinks. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!