Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Luke 10:25-37 (The Good Samaritan)

Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of Luke 10:25-37 (The Good Samaritan)

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage as a profound illustration of God's sovereign grace, transcending ethnic and religious boundaries, and pointing to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of the Law. The parable of the Good Samaritan is not merely a moral lesson but a depiction of Christ's redemptive work, where the despised Samaritan represents the unexpected grace of God reaching out to fallen humanity. The lawyer's question about inheriting eternal life is answered not through human effort but through the recognition of our inability to fulfill the Law perfectly, thus driving us to Christ as our only hope of righteousness.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek text, the term 'compassion' (σπλαγχνίζομαι) used to describe the Samaritan's response is significant, as it echoes the compassion of Christ himself throughout the Gospels. This term suggests a deep, visceral reaction that aligns with the Reformed emphasis on God's sovereign grace reaching into the depths of human despair. The choice to emphasize 'inherit' (κληρονομήσω) in the lawyer's question also supports our focus on the covenantal nature of salvation — an inheritance received, not earned.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our Reformed interpretation diverges from the Arminian tradition, which might emphasize the parable as a call to moral decision-making or human effort in salvation. We also differ from Catholic interpretations that might see this parable as supporting works of merit within the framework of earning grace. For us, this parable underscores the impossibility of fulfilling the Law apart from Christ's imputed righteousness and the covenantal grace that unites us to Him.

Pastoral Application

As we preach this text, we should emphasize the reality of our total depravity and the sufficiency of Christ's work — the Good Samaritan as a picture of Christ's unlikely grace toward us. Encourage the congregation to see themselves not as the Samaritan but as those in need of rescue, highlighting the assurance found in God's sovereign choice and effectual calling. Challenge the church to reflect Christ's compassion in their own lives, not as a means to earn favor, but as a response to the grace already received through the covenant of grace. This passage should inspire a love for neighbor rooted in the deep security of God's sovereign love for us.

Cross-References: Matthew 5:17; Romans 5:8; Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:4-7; Galatians 3:28

Doctrinal Connections: sovereign grace; the covenant of grace; total depravity; effectual calling; the chief end of man