Bible moment
The Bible moment
In Luke 10:25–37, a law expert tests Jesus by asking what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus has him state the commands to love God with all his being and to love his neighbor as himself. Wanting to justify himself, the law expert asks, “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus answers with a parable. A traveler is attacked on the road from Jerusalem to Jericho and left badly hurt. A priest and a Levite see him but pass by. A Samaritan has compassion, cares for him, brings him to an inn, and arranges payment for his continued care. Jesus asks which person acted as a neighbor. The law expert answers, “The one who showed him mercy.” Jesus tells him to go and do likewise.
Look closely
What children can notice
The law expert answers Jesus while the figures from the parable appear in a simple surrounding tableau: the Samaritan helping the traveler, the priest and Levite farther along the road, and the inn nearby. The visual focus is the law expert’s recognition that mercy makes a neighbor.
Talk together
Talk about it
- How did the Samaritan show mercy?
- Who might need safe, practical help today?
For families, church, and class
Use this page
Read Luke 10:25–37 together, then invite children to retell the parable using the scene. Emphasize compassion without stereotyping the priest or Levite. Discuss safe ways to help, such as telling a trusted adult, sharing needed supplies, or offering kindness. Let children draw, act out, or plan one caring action.
Source note
From this passage
Luke 10:36-37 · Parable of the Good Samaritan
The law expert answers Jesus while the figures from the parable appear in a simple surrounding tableau: the Samaritan helping the traveler, the priest and Levite farther along the road, and the inn nearby. The visual focus is the law expert’s recognition that mercy makes a neighbor.
