Luke 10:35 – “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.’”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, the Samaritan’s care for the injured man goes even further. After bandaging his wounds and taking him to an inn, the Samaritan stays with the man overnight to ensure he is stable. The next day, he pays the innkeeper two denarii, which would cover several days of care. But he doesn’t stop there—he promises to come back and reimburse the innkeeper for any additional expenses.

The Samaritan’s actions reflect true, sacrificial love. He takes full responsibility for the man’s care, even when he could have considered his initial efforts enough. His promise to return shows long-term commitment, highlighting that love is not just a one-time act—it’s an ongoing decision to care for others.

Historical Context

A denarius was the typical wage for a day’s work during that time, so two denarii would have been enough to pay for several days of lodging and food at the inn. Inns in ancient times were not luxurious—many were simple places for travelers to rest—but they provided basic necessities for those in need. By paying in advance, the Samaritan ensured that the man would be taken care of, even in his absence.

In Jewish culture, Samaritans were considered outsiders and enemies, so the idea of a Samaritan going to this extent to help a Jewish man would have been shocking. The audience listening to Jesus would have expected a Samaritan to ignore or even take advantage of the situation. But Jesus intentionally uses the Samaritan as the hero of the story to challenge their prejudices and redefine what it means to be a neighbor.

The Samaritan’s promise to return also reflects the value of trust. Inns were often considered unsafe or poorly managed, but the Samaritan’s willingness to leave the man in the care of an innkeeper shows his dedication and confidence in completing what he started.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights several important theological truths:

1. Love goes beyond the minimum: The Samaritan didn’t just provide immediate help—he made sure the man had ongoing care. This reflects God’s love, which is not temporary or partial but complete and enduring.
2. Stewardship of resources for others: The Samaritan used his own money to help someone in need, showing that our resources are meant to be used for God’s purposes. We are called to be generous and willing to share what we have for the benefit of others.
3. Faithfulness and responsibility: The Samaritan’s promise to return demonstrates commitment. Similarly, God calls us to be faithful in following through with the responsibilities we take on, especially when it comes to caring for others.

The Samaritan’s actions reflect the heart of the gospel: love that sacrifices, provides, and remains faithful. His generosity parallels God’s abundant provision and care for His people.

Literary Analysis

This verse serves as the climax of the Samaritan’s actions, showing the depth of his commitment. The verbs “took out,” “gave,” and “said” demonstrate intentional, continuous action. The Samaritan didn’t just do the bare minimum—he took responsibility for the man’s future well-being. The structure of the parable builds up to this moment, where the Samaritan’s love is shown to be more than just spontaneous kindness; it’s intentional, thoughtful, and enduring.

The promise to “reimburse any extra expense” reinforces the theme of sacrificial love. It shows that the Samaritan was willing to cover any cost necessary to restore the man to health. This parallels the way Jesus’ love for us is unlimited—He paid the ultimate price for our salvation and continues to care for us.

Biblical Cross-References

• Proverbs 19:17 – “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.”
• 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 – God loves a cheerful giver, emphasizing generosity as a reflection of faith.
• Matthew 25:35-40 – Jesus teaches that when we care for those in need, we are caring for Him.
• Galatians 6:2 – “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
• James 2:14-17 – Faith without works is dead, highlighting the importance of actions that reflect our faith.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, Luke 10:35 challenges us to consider how far we’re willing to go in loving others. The Samaritan didn’t stop at what was convenient—he made personal sacrifices and demonstrated long-term commitment. This verse asks us: Are we willing to go the extra mile for someone in need, even when it costs us time, money, or comfort?

It also reminds us that generosity is an essential part of the Christian life. The Samaritan used his resources to help someone he didn’t know, trusting that God’s provision is more than enough. Similarly, we are called to be stewards of what God has given us, using our blessings to bless others.

Additionally, this verse encourages us to think about the follow-through. Sometimes, we may start helping someone but give up when it becomes difficult or inconvenient. The Samaritan’s promise to return shows the importance of perseverance and faithfulness in love and service.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

The Samaritan’s actions reflect God’s faithful, sacrificial love. Just as the Samaritan committed to caring for the injured man, God is committed to us. His love isn’t temporary or dependent on our actions—it is steadfast and enduring. He provides for our needs, both physical and spiritual, and promises to complete the work He began in us (Philippians 1:6).

God’s love is also seen in His provision. The Samaritan’s willingness to cover any additional expenses mirrors God’s abundant provision through Jesus Christ. Just as the Samaritan didn’t place limits on his care, God’s love and grace are limitless.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the ultimate Good Samaritan who saw humanity in its broken state and took action. When we were spiritually wounded and helpless, He came to heal us and provide for our salvation. His sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate expression of sacrificial love (John 15:13).

The Samaritan’s willingness to pay the cost reflects Jesus’ willingness to pay the price for our sins. Just as the Samaritan ensured that the man’s recovery would be complete, Jesus provides for our complete restoration, offering not just forgiveness but abundant life (John 10:10). His promise to return also parallels Jesus’ promise to return and bring final restoration to all creation.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Are you willing to go beyond the minimum when it comes to loving and helping others, even if it costs you time, money, or comfort?
2. How can you use your resources (money, time, talents) to care for someone in need this week?
3. Have you ever started helping someone but struggled to follow through? What can you learn from the Samaritan’s example of perseverance and commitment?
4. How does the Samaritan’s generosity reflect God’s generosity toward you?
5. In what ways does Jesus’ sacrifice inspire you to show sacrificial love to others?

Luke 10:35 is a reminder that love is more than a momentary act—it’s a long-term commitment to care, provide, and sacrifice. As we reflect on this verse, may we be inspired by the example of the Samaritan and, more importantly, by the example of Jesus, who gave everything to bring us healing and life.