Four things Jesus does in the parable:
1. Jesus gives a to be a gospel-centered neighbor.
2. Jesus provides the of gospel-centered neighboring.
3. Jesus clarifies the of gospel-centered neighboring.
4. Jesus introduces the for being a gospel-centered neighbor.
NOTES:
QUESTIONS FOR FURTHER STUDY
Read Luke 10:25-37 and discuss:
• What stands out to you in the parable of the Good Samaritan? Why
do you think Jesus chose to make the Samaritan the hero of the story?
• What does the lawyer’s question “Who is my neighbor?” reveal about
his heart? How does Jesus’ response shift the focus from identifying
who deserves love to how we love?
• Why do you think the priest and Levite chose to ignore the wounded
man? What reasons or excuses might we make today to justify
inaction?
• What does it mean to be a gospel-centered neighbor? How do
you personally define this now after hearing the sermon? Has your
definition changed?
• The Samaritan showed mercy. What’s the difference between grace
and mercy, and why does this distinction matter in the story?
• The sermon described mercy as costly, compassionate, and
proactive. Can you think of a time someone showed you that kind of
mercy? How did it impact you?
• Are there limits to and/or appropriateness in being a neighbor? If so,
describe them. What fears or hesitations hold you back from being a
gospel-centered neighbor?
• What challenged you most from this parable and/or message?
PERSONAL REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
• Put a face to the wounded: Who in your life, neighborhood, or
community is “lying in the road” right now—spiritually, emotionally,
relationally, or physically? How could you be a gospel-centered
neighbor to them?
• Choose one concrete action you will take this week to be a gospel-
centered neighbor. Here are a few suggestions:
– Volunteer with a church ministry team or local nonprofit
– Reach out to someone who is isolated, hurting, or different from you.
– Invite someone over for a meal—especially someone you wouldn’t
normally spend time with.
– Write a note or message of encouragement to someone you know is
struggling.