Luke 10:37 – “The expert in the law replied, ‘The one who had mercy on him.’ Jesus told him, ‘Go and do likewise.’”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, the parable of the Good Samaritan comes to its conclusion. After Jesus asks the expert in the law to identify which of the three men was a neighbor to the injured man, the expert replies, “The one who had mercy on him.” Notice that he doesn’t say “the Samaritan,” likely because of the deep-rooted hostility between Jews and Samaritans. However, he still acknowledges that the Samaritan’s mercy was what made him the true neighbor.
Jesus’ response, “Go and do likewise,” is a direct command to act with the same compassion and mercy. The expert had originally asked who qualifies as a neighbor, hoping to limit the scope of love. But Jesus flips the question and shows that being a neighbor is about what we do. The command is clear: mercy isn’t optional—it’s essential to living out God’s call to love.
Historical Context
The expert in the law would have been part of a group of religious leaders who were highly knowledgeable about Jewish law and Scripture. He would have been familiar with the command to love one’s neighbor (Leviticus 19:18), but like many of his peers, he likely interpreted it narrowly, applying it only to fellow Jews. This exclusionary mindset is what Jesus challenges in the parable.
Samaritans were despised by many Jews because of their mixed heritage and differences in religious practices. For Jesus to make a Samaritan the hero of the story would have been shocking and humbling for the expert. By the end of the parable, the expert is forced to admit that the Samaritan—someone he would normally view as an enemy—was the one who truly obeyed God’s command to love.
The phrase “Go and do likewise” echoes a common teaching method in Jewish tradition, where instruction is meant to lead to practical action. Jesus wasn’t interested in theological debates or intellectual knowledge—He wanted His listeners to live out what they knew.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights several key theological truths:
- Mercy is at the heart of God’s law: The expert in the law correctly identifies that mercy defines what it means to be a neighbor. Jesus affirms that the core of God’s commands is love expressed through compassion and mercy.
- Love transcends boundaries: The Samaritan’s actions demonstrate that God’s love isn’t limited by nationality, ethnicity, or religious differences. We are called to show mercy to anyone in need, regardless of who they are.
- Faith is demonstrated through action: Knowing God’s commands isn’t enough—Jesus commands the expert to “go and do likewise.” True faith is shown through acts of love and mercy.
This verse reminds us that obedience to God isn’t about legalism or restricting who we love—it’s about living a life of sacrificial love that reflects God’s character.
Literary Analysis
The structure of this verse brings the parable to a powerful conclusion. The expert’s reluctant but truthful answer highlights the tension and transformation that has taken place. By acknowledging that the Samaritan acted as a neighbor, the expert admits that love can’t be limited to specific groups of people.
Jesus’ command, “Go and do likewise,” is intentionally open-ended. It doesn’t define specific situations or boundaries for when and how to show mercy. Instead, it calls for a lifestyle of compassion and generosity that applies to all areas of life.
The phrase “the one who had mercy on him” is key. Mercy isn’t just feeling sorry for someone—it’s taking action to relieve their suffering. This distinction is central to the parable’s message: love must be active to be genuine.
Biblical Cross-References
- Micah 6:8 – “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
- James 2:13 – “Judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.”
- Matthew 5:7 – “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”
- 1 John 3:17-18 – “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?”
- Matthew 25:35-40 – Jesus explains that acts of kindness toward others are ultimately acts of kindness toward Him.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Luke 10:37 is a reminder that mercy and compassion are central to following Jesus. The command to “go and do likewise” applies to all of us. We’re called to be people who actively seek out opportunities to help others, especially those who are hurting or marginalized.
This verse also challenges us to confront any prejudices or barriers that prevent us from showing love. Just as the expert in the law had to recognize the Samaritan as a neighbor, we’re called to extend mercy to those we may find difficult to love. Whether it’s someone from a different background, someone who has wronged us, or someone society has rejected, Jesus calls us to love them as He loves us.
Additionally, this verse highlights the importance of living out our faith. It’s not enough to know Scripture or attend church—we need to put our faith into action by serving others and showing mercy. Our love for God should be evident in how we treat those around us.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is the ultimate example of mercy. Throughout Scripture, we see God extending compassion to those who are lost, broken, and in need of salvation. Just as the Samaritan didn’t hesitate to help the injured man, God doesn’t hesitate to show mercy to us, even when we don’t deserve it.
God’s love is also inclusive and unconditional. He doesn’t limit His mercy to those who are “worthy” or “deserving.” Instead, He shows kindness to all who call on Him. The Samaritan’s actions reflect God’s character, demonstrating that His love is for everyone, regardless of status or background.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus embodies the ultimate example of neighborly love. He didn’t just teach about mercy—He lived it. Throughout His ministry, He reached out to those who were marginalized, sick, and despised by society. His compassion wasn’t limited by cultural or religious boundaries.
Ultimately, Jesus’ death on the cross is the greatest act of mercy. Just as the Samaritan took on the responsibility of caring for the injured man, Jesus took on the burden of our sin and paid the price for our salvation (Isaiah 53:5, Romans 5:8). His sacrifice shows us what it means to love sacrificially and without limits.
Jesus’ command to “go and do likewise” is a call to follow His example. As His followers, we are called to reflect His mercy in our interactions with others and to be His hands and feet in a world that desperately needs His love.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there people or groups of people whom you find difficult to show mercy to? How can you begin to change your attitude toward them?
- What practical steps can you take to “go and do likewise” in your daily life?
- How does understanding God’s mercy toward you influence the way you treat others?
- Have you ever hesitated to help someone because of personal inconvenience or prejudice? What can you learn from the Samaritan’s example?
- How can you demonstrate Christ’s love this week through acts of mercy and compassion?
Luke 10:37 reminds us that love isn’t just a feeling—it’s an action. As we reflect on this verse, may we be inspired to follow Jesus’ command by living lives of mercy, compassion, and love, reflecting the heart of our Savior to those around us.