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

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

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage as a vivid demonstration of the gospel's call to love our neighbor, grounded in the reality of God's redemptive plan through Christ. The parable of the Good Samaritan underscores the universal application of the law of love, transcending ethnic and cultural boundaries, and pointing to the fulfillment of the law in Christ. This passage challenges us to reflect the character of God, who, in His sovereign grace, reaches out to all humanity. The role of the Samaritan as the hero highlights the radical nature of God's kingdom, where grace is extended to the least expected, mirroring the substitutionary atonement of Christ, who reached out to us while we were yet sinners.

Key Language Decisions

The Greek word 'σπλαγχνίζομαι' (splanchnizomai), translated as 'had compassion' in verse 33, is pivotal. It conveys a deep, visceral empathy, often used in the New Testament to describe Jesus' own compassion. This term emphasizes the Samaritan's Christ-like response, which aligns with our tradition's focus on imitating Christ's sacrificial love. We also emphasize the legal expert's question in verse 29, 'τίς ἐστίν μου πλησίον;' (tis estin mou plēsion? 'Who is my neighbor?'), highlighting the universal scope of God's command to love.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our tradition diverges from the liberal theological traditions that may interpret this parable primarily as a social justice narrative, detached from its redemptive-historical context. We maintain that the parable's ultimate purpose is to point us to Christ's atoning work and the transformative power of the gospel, rather than merely advocating for social reform. Unlike some mainline traditions, we emphasize the necessity of personal faith and the imputation of Christ's righteousness as central to understanding this passage.

Pastoral Application

As Traditional Lens pastors, we should emphasize that the love exemplified in this parable is not mere human kindness but a reflection of God's redemptive love in Christ. We encourage our congregations to see every person as their neighbor, bearing God's image, and to act with sacrificial love, mirroring the gospel. It's crucial to remind believers that this love flows from the transformation brought by the Holy Spirit, not from our own fallen nature. Preaching this passage, we urge believers to actively engage in compassion, reflecting the heart of God and pointing others to the cross of Christ.

Cross-References: Matthew 22:37-40; John 13:34-35; Galatians 5:14; James 2:8; 1 John 4:11-12

Doctrinal Connections: Substitutionary atonement; Justification by faith; The imago Dei; Total depravity and grace; The universality of the gospel call