October 17, 2025
What does the parable of the good Samaritan actually mean?
Luke 9-10
Russell Robertson
Big Book Idea
Written to the Greeks, and full of parables, Luke shows Jesus is perfect but also like us.
Key Verse | Luke 10:29
But he, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"
Luke 9-10
Chapter 9
Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Apostles
1 And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. 3 And he said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics. 1 9:3 Greek chiton, a long garment worn under the cloak next to the skin 4 And whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart. 5 And wherever they do not receive you, when you leave that town shake off the dust from your feet as a testimony against them.” 6 And they departed and went through the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
Herod Is Perplexed by Jesus
7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, 8 by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the prophets of old had risen. 9 Herod said, “John I beheaded, but who is this about whom I hear such things?” And he sought to see him.
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
10 On their return the apostles told him all that they had done. And he took them and withdrew apart to a town called Bethsaida. 11 When the crowds learned it, they followed him, and he welcomed them and spoke to them of the kingdom of God and cured those who had need of healing. 12 Now the day began to wear away, and the twelve came and said to him, “Send the crowd away to go into the surrounding villages and countryside to find lodging and get provisions, for we are here in a desolate place.” 13 But he said to them, “You give them something to eat.” They said, “We have no more than five loaves and two fish—unless we are to go and buy food for all these people.” 14 For there were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, “Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each.” 15 And they did so, and had them all sit down. 16 And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing over them. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. 17 And they all ate and were satisfied. And what was left over was picked up, twelve baskets of broken pieces.
Peter Confesses Jesus as the Christ
18 Now it happened that as he was praying alone, the disciples were with him. And he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 And they answered, “John the Baptist. But others say, Elijah, and others, that one of the prophets of old has risen.” 20 Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered, “The Christ of God.”
Jesus Foretells His Death
21 And he strictly charged and commanded them to tell this to no one, 22 saying, “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.”
Take Up Your Cross and Follow Jesus
23 And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. 25 For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? 26 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. 27 But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God.”
The Transfiguration
28 Now about eight days after these sayings he took with him Peter and John and James and went up on the mountain to pray. 29 And as he was praying, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became dazzling white. 30 And behold, two men were talking with him, Moses and Elijah, 31 who appeared in glory and spoke of his departure, 2 9:31 Greek exodus which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. 32 Now Peter and those who were with him were heavy with sleep, but when they became fully awake they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. 33 And as the men were parting from him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah”—not knowing what he said. 34 As he was saying these things, a cloud came and overshadowed them, and they were afraid as they entered the cloud. 35 And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, my Chosen One; 3 9:35 Some manuscripts my Beloved listen to him!” 36 And when the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and told no one in those days anything of what they had seen.
Jesus Heals a Boy with an Unclean Spirit
37 On the next day, when they had come down from the mountain, a great crowd met him. 38 And behold, a man from the crowd cried out, “Teacher, I beg you to look at my son, for he is my only child. 39 And behold, a spirit seizes him, and he suddenly cries out. It convulses him so that he foams at the mouth, and shatters him, and will hardly leave him. 40 And I begged your disciples to cast it out, but they could not.” 41 Jesus answered, “O faithless and twisted generation, how long am I to be with you and bear with you? Bring your son here.” 42 While he was coming, the demon threw him to the ground and convulsed him. But Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit and healed the boy, and gave him back to his father. 43 And all were astonished at the majesty of God.
Jesus Again Foretells His Death
But while they were all marveling at everything he was doing, Jesus 4 9:43 Greek he said to his disciples, 44 “Let these words sink into your ears: The Son of Man is about to be delivered into the hands of men.” 45 But they did not understand this saying, and it was concealed from them, so that they might not perceive it. And they were afraid to ask him about this saying.
Who Is the Greatest?
46 An argument arose among them as to which of them was the greatest. 47 But Jesus, knowing the reasoning of their hearts, took a child and put him by his side 48 and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. For he who is least among you all is the one who is great.”
Anyone Not Against Us Is For Us
49 John answered, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he does not follow with us.” 50 But Jesus said to him, “Do not stop him, for the one who is not against you is for you.”
A Samaritan Village Rejects Jesus
51 When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. 52 And he sent messengers ahead of him, who went and entered a village of the Samaritans, to make preparations for him. 53 But the people did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. 54 And when his disciples James and John saw it, they said, “Lord, do you want us to tell fire to come down from heaven and consume them?” 5 9:54 Some manuscripts add as Elijah did 55 But he turned and rebuked them. 6 9:55 Some manuscripts add And he said, You do not know what manner of spirit you are of; 56for the Son of Man came not to destroy people's lives but to save them 56 And they went on to another village.
The Cost of Following Jesus
57 As they were going along the road, someone said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” 58 And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” 59 To another he said, “Follow me.” But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” 60 And Jesus 7 9:60 Greek he said to him, “Leave the dead to bury their own dead. But as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God.” 61 Yet another said, “I will follow you, Lord, but let me first say farewell to those at my home.” 62 Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”
Chapter 10
Jesus Sends Out the Seventy-Two
1 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two 8 10:1 Some manuscripts seventy; also verse 17 others and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to go. 2 And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. 3 Go your way; behold, I am sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves. 4 Carry no moneybag, no knapsack, no sandals, and greet no one on the road. 5 Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace be to this house!’ 6 And if a son of peace is there, your peace will rest upon him. But if not, it will return to you. 7 And remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the laborer deserves his wages. Do not go from house to house. 8 Whenever you enter a town and they receive you, eat what is set before you. 9 Heal the sick in it and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’ 10 But whenever you enter a town and they do not receive you, go into its streets and say, 11 ‘Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet we wipe off against you. Nevertheless know this, that the kingdom of God has come near.’ 12 I tell you, it will be more bearable on that day for Sodom than for that town.
Woe to Unrepentant Cities
13 Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14 But it will be more bearable in the judgment for Tyre and Sidon than for you. 15 And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You shall be brought down to Hades.
16 The one who hears you hears me, and the one who rejects you rejects me, and the one who rejects me rejects him who sent me.”
The Return of the Seventy-Two
17 The seventy-two returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name!” 18 And he said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 19 Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you. 20 Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”
Jesus Rejoices in the Father's Will
21 In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. 9 10:21 Or for so it pleased you well 22 All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, or who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.”
23 Then turning to the disciples he said privately, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see! 24 For I tell you that many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.”
The Parable of the Good Samaritan
25 And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” 26 He said to him, “What is written in the Law? How do you read it?” 27 And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” 28 And he said to him, “You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live.”
29 But he, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 30 Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him and departed, leaving him half dead. 31 Now by chance a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. 32 So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. 34 He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35 And the next day he took out two denarii 10 10:35 A denarius was a day's wage for a laborer and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take care of him, and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.’ 36 Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” 37 He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” And Jesus said to him, “You go, and do likewise.”
Martha and Mary
38 Now as they went on their way, Jesus 11 10:38 Greek he entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” 41 But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, 42 but one thing is necessary. 12 10:42 Some manuscripts few things are necessary, or only one Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
Footnotes
[1] 9:3 Greek chiton, a long garment worn under the cloak next to the skin[2] 9:31 Greek exodus
[3] 9:35 Some manuscripts my Beloved
[4] 9:43 Greek he
[5] 9:54 Some manuscripts add as Elijah did
[6] 9:55 Some manuscripts add And he said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of; 56for the Son of Man came not to destroy people's lives but to save them”
[7] 9:60 Greek he
[8] 10:1 Some manuscripts seventy; also verse 17
[9] 10:21 Or for so it pleased you well
[10] 10:35 A denarius was a day's wage for a laborer
[11] 10:38 Greek he
[12] 10:42 Some manuscripts few things are necessary, or only one
Table of Contents
Introduction to Luke
Timeline
Author, Date, and Recipients
Luke was a physician (Col. 4:14) and a travel companion of the apostle Paul. He wrote this Gospel and its sequel, the book of Acts. The earliest possible date of Luke–Acts is immediately after the events that Luke recorded in Acts 28, which would have been c. A.D. 62. Both Luke and Acts are addressed to “Theophilus” (Luke 1:3; Acts 1:1), about whom nothing more is known. Luke’s broader audience consisted primarily of Gentile Christians like Theophilus who had already “been taught” (Luke 1:4) about Jesus.
Theme
The gospel is for all, Jews and Gentiles alike, since Jesus is the promised one of God as prophesied in the OT and as seen in God’s saving activity in Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. The Christian traditions Luke’s readers have received are true; by believing in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, they will receive the promised Holy Spirit whom he gives to all who follow him.
Purpose
Luke probably had several goals in writing: (1) to assure his readers of the truth of what they had been taught; (2) to help them understand how Israel’s rejection of Jesus and the Gentiles’ entrance into the kingdom of God are part of God’s plan; (3) to clarify that Jesus did not teach that his bodily return would come immediately but that there would be a period between his resurrection and his return; and (4) to emphasize that they need not fear any mere earthly power such as Rome.
Key Themes
- God’s sovereign rule over history (13:33; 22:22, 42).
- The arrival and actual presence (though not yet the completion) of the kingdom of God (11:2; 17:20–21; 21:34–36).
- The coming and presence of the Holy Spirit for Jesus and his followers (1:15–17, 35; 2:25–27; 3:16, 22; 4:1, 18; 24:49).
- The great reversal taking place in the world, in which the first are becoming last and the last are becoming first, the proud are being brought low and the humble are being exalted (1:48; 6:20–26; 13:30; 14:11).
- Believers are to live a life of prayer and practice good stewardship with their possessions (6:12; 9:28–29; 11:1–4; 12:33–34; 18:1; 22:40).
- The danger of riches (6:20–26; 8:14; 12:13–21; 16:10–13, 19–31).
Outline
- The Prologue (1:1–4)
- The Infancy Narrative (1:5–2:52)
- Preparation for the Ministry of Jesus (3:1–4:15)
- The Ministry of Jesus in Galilee (4:16–9:50)
- The Journey to Jerusalem (9:51–19:27)
- The Ministry of Jesus in Jerusalem (19:28–21:38)
- The Suffering and Death of Jesus (22:1–23:56)
- The Resurrection of Jesus (24:1–53)
The Setting of Luke
The events in the book of Luke take place almost entirely within the vicinity of Palestine, an area extending roughly from Caesarea Philippi in the north to Beersheba in the south. During this time it was ruled by the Roman Empire. The opening chapters describe events surrounding Jesus’ birth in Judea, where Herod had been appointed king by the Romans. The closing chapters end with Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension during the rule of Pontius Pilate and the tetrarchs Antipas and Philip.
Fact: Children
Jesus welcomed children and sometimes used them as examples of humility (10:21; 18:15–17). He taught that such humility was necessary for his followers (see Matt. 18:3–4). God delights in showing mercy to those who are humble (see Luke 1:52–53).
Fact: Bethsaida
Was Bethsaida (9:10) actually a fishing village on the Sea of Galilee, as Mark 6:45 suggests? The most likely site for Bethsaida is 1.25 miles (2 km) inland from the Sea. However, recent archaeological research has shown that this can be explained by (1) a lowering of the water level in the Sea, (2) sedimentation, and (3) seismic activity.
Fact: The coming of God’s kingdom
The coming of God’s kingdom (11:2) is an important theme in the Gospels. It refers to the advance of God’s rule over all creation, especially as sinful men and women put their trust in Jesus and submit to God’s authority in their lives.
Jesus’ Final Journey to Jerusalem
Though John mentions several trips to Jerusalem by Jesus during his ministry, Matthew, Mark, and Luke recount only one, which occurred as Jesus prepared for his triumphal entry and subsequent death and resurrection. Beginning at Capernaum, Jesus was apparently diverted from the more direct route when Samaritans refused him access (Luke 9:51–56), so he may have crossed the Jordan and traveled through Perea. Jesus then passed through Jericho and proceeded to Jerusalem.
Jesus’ Final Journey to Jerusalem
Though John mentions several trips to Jerusalem by Jesus during his ministry, Matthew, Mark, and Luke recount only one, which occurred as Jesus prepared for his triumphal entry and subsequent death and resurrection. Beginning at Capernaum, Jesus was apparently diverted from the more direct route when Samaritans refused him access (Luke 9:51–56), so he may have crossed the Jordan and traveled through Perea. Jesus then passed through Jericho and proceeded to Jerusalem.
Jesus Travels to Jerusalem
Though John mentions several trips to Jerusalem by Jesus during his ministry, Matthew, Mark, and Luke recount only one, which occurred as Jesus prepared for his triumphal entry and subsequent death and resurrection. Beginning at Capernaum, Jesus was apparently diverted from the more direct route when Samaritans refused him access (Luke 9:51–56), so he may have crossed the Jordan and traveled through Perea. Jesus then passed through Jericho and proceeded to Jerusalem.
Jesus’ Ministry in Galilee
Jesus spent most of his life and ministry in the region of Galilee, a mountainous area in northern Palestine. Jesus grew up in the small hill town of Nazareth, about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) south of the Gentile administrative center of Sepphoris. Soon after he began his public ministry, Jesus relocated to Capernaum on the Sea of Galilee. By Jesus’ time, a thriving fishing industry had developed around the Sea of Galilee, and several of Jesus’ disciples were fishermen.
The Parables of Jesus
| Parable | Matthew | Mark | Luke |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Purpose of the Parables | 13:10–17 | 4:10–12 | 8:9–10 |
| The Sower | 13:1–9, 18–23 | 4:1–9, 13–20 | 8:4–8, 11–15 |
| The Weeds | 13:24–30, 36–43 | 4:26–29 | |
| The Mustard Seed | 13:31–32 | 4:30–32 | 13:18–19 |
| The Leaven | 13:33 | 13:20–21 | |
| The Hidden Treasure | 13:44 | ||
| The Pearl of Great Value | 13:45–46 | ||
| The Net | 13:47–50 | ||
| The Lost Sheep | 18:10–14 | 15:3–7 | |
| The Unforgiving Servant | 18:23–35 | ||
| The Two Sons | 21:28–32 | ||
| The Tenants | 21:33–44 | 12:1–11 | 20:9–18 |
| The Wedding Feast | 22:1–14 | 14:16–24 | |
| The Ten Virgins | 25:1–13 | ||
| The Talents | 25:14–30 | 19:11–27 | |
| The Good Samaritan | 10:29–37 | ||
| The Rich Fool | 12:16–21 | ||
| The Barren Fig Tree | 13:6–9 | ||
| The Wedding Feast | 14:7–11 | ||
| The Lost Coin | 15:8–10 | ||
| The Prodigal Son | 15:11–32 | ||
| The Dishonest Manager | 16:1–9 | ||
| The Rich Man and Lazarus | 16:19–31 | ||
| The Persistent Widow | 18:1–8 | ||
| The Pharisee and the Tax Collector | 18:9–14 |
Predictions, Reminders, and Proofs of the Death and Resurrection of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke
| 9:22 | “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected . . . and be killed, and on the third day be raised.” |
| 9:44 | “The Son of Man is about to be delivered into the hands of men.” |
| 12:50 | “I have a baptism to be baptized with.” |
| 13:32 | “I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course.” |
| 13:33 | “for it cannot be that a prophet should perish away from Jerusalem.” |
| 17:25 | “But first he must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation.” |
| 18:32 | “he will be delivered over to the Gentiles and will be mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon.” |
| 18:33 | “after flogging him, they will kill him, and on the third day he will rise.” |
| 24:6–7 | “Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise.” |
| 24:25–26 | “. . . slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” |
| 24:46 | “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead.” |
Mary, Sister of Lazarus
Mary, along with her sister Martha and her brother Lazarus, was a close friend of Jesus. Mary was intensely devoted to Jesus, choosing to sit at his feet and listen to his teaching while Martha struggled to be a good hostess (see Luke 10:38-42). Martha was annoyed that Mary didn’t help her, but Jesus praised Mary’s decision, saying that it demonstrated her desire for close fellowship with the Lord. On another occasion Mary was scolded by the disciples, who were indignant that she anointed Jesus with costly ointment rather than selling it and giving the money to the poor. Again, Jesus defended Mary’s actions of humility and devotion. (John 12:3)
Martha
Martha was the sister of Mary and Lazarus. The three of them were close friends of Jesus. Martha welcomed Jesus into her home in Bethany, where she prepared him meals as he taught. A conscientious hostess, Martha busied herself with serving her guests while Mary chose instead to listen to Jesus’ teaching. This frustrated Martha, but Jesus gently rebuked her and defended Mary’s desire to learn from him (10:38–42). It was Martha and Mary who sent word to Jesus when their brother Lazarus became ill (John 11). Even though Lazarus had died by the time Jesus arrived at their home, Martha believed that God could work a miracle through Jesus. When Jesus gave Martha an opportunity to express her faith, she replied, “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world” (John 11:27). (Luke 10:38–42)
James
James and his brother John were fishermen. Together with their father Zebedee, they were mending their nets when Jesus called them to be disciples. Jesus called James and John the “Sons of Thunder” (Mark 3:17; see Luke 9:54). James, along with Peter and John, were the disciples closest to Jesus. They were with the Lord during many of the key moments of his ministry. James was with Jesus at the Transfiguration, where Jesus revealed his divine glory. He was also with Jesus when he healed Jairus’s daughter (Mark 5:37). When Jesus prayed at Gethsemane, he asked James, John, and Peter to share with him the agonizing time of anticipation and sorrow as he faced the cross (Matt. 26:37). James was later executed by Herod, becoming the first apostle to die for his faith (Acts 12:1–3). (Matthew 4:21–22)
Luke 9:3 Take nothing for your journey. See note on Mark 6:8–9. Perhaps this is due to the brevity of their mission and to teach them to trust God to supply their needs (Luke 12:22–31). no staff. According to Mark 6:8, the disciples were allowed to take a staff. Here in Luke’s account, Jesus is probably not prohibiting a staff altogether but prohibiting taking an extra one (as Luke 10:4 prohibits extra sandals).
Luke 9:5 wherever they do not receive you. “Receive” is used elsewhere with respect to welcoming and receiving God’s word (8:13), Jesus (9:48, 53), Jesus’ followers (vv. 5, 48), and the kingdom of God (18:17). shake off the dust from your feet (compare 10:11; see notes on Matt. 10:14; Mark 6:11). This visibly illustrates the future judgment of those who reject Christ’s messengers (Luke 10:11–15).
Luke 9:7–8 Herod the tetrarch (see 3:1 and note on Matt. 14:1). As a careful historian, Luke uses the proper title (“tetrarch”) to describe Herod Antipas rather than the less precise, general term “king” (Matt. 14:9; Mark 6:14). it was said by some. On the various misunderstandings of Jesus’ identity, see note on Mark 6:14b–15. one of the prophets. Such as Moses (Deut. 18:15) or Jeremiah (Matt. 16:14). Compare John 6:14. had risen. A literal return from the dead is probably meant.
Luke 9:9 John I beheaded. See Matt. 14:1–12; Mark 6:14–29; and notes. And he sought to see him foreshadows Luke 13:31 and 23:6–12. It refers to either Herod Antipas’s desire to see Jesus perform a miracle (23:8) or his desire to kill him (13:31).
Luke 9:10 The apostles (see note on Rom. 1:1), the “twelve” (Luke 9:12), and the “disciples” (vv. 14, 16) are used interchangeably here. Bethsaida was just northeast of where the Jordan flows into the Sea of Galilee from the north.
Fact: Bethsaida
Was Bethsaida (9:10) actually a fishing village on the Sea of Galilee, as Mark 6:45 suggests? The most likely site for Bethsaida is 1.25 miles (2 km) inland from the Sea. However, recent archaeological research has shown that this can be explained by (1) a lowering of the water level in the Sea, (2) sedimentation, and (3) seismic activity.
Luke 9:14 about five thousand men. See note on John 6:10–11.
Luke 9:17 twelve baskets. Much food is left over, and Jesus did not want any food to be wasted.
Luke 9:18–20 praying alone. Jesus may have been praying that his disciples would truly understand who he is. John the Baptist. The disciples repeat the same possibilities mentioned in vv. 7–8 (see note on Matt. 16:14). But who do you say. “You” is plural and is emphasized in the Greek. Peter, spokesman for the disciples, answered, “The Christ of God.” (On Peter’s confession, see notes on Matt. 16:16; Mark 8:29b–30.) Jesus’ identity as the “Christ”—confessed by angels (Luke 2:11); by the Gospel narrator (2:26); by demons (4:41); and by Jesus himself (4:18)—is now confessed for the first time by the Twelve. For “Christ,” see note on 2:11.
Luke 9:21–22 For the first time, Jesus clearly teaches the Twelve that his role as God’s anointed Messiah (Christ) involves suffering and death. tell this to no one. Peter’s confession (v. 20) is correct, but proclaiming it widely at this time would be misunderstood because of Jewish nationalistic expectations. For the Son of Man, see note on Matt. 8:20. by the elders and chief priests and scribes. They are acting as a group. The “chief priests” are not the high priests but members of the most prominent priestly families. Jesus will be raised to life by God.
Luke 9:23 Come after me means to become a disciple (compare 14:27). This requires that a disciple: (1) deny himself (renouncing personal control of one’s life); (2) take up his cross (making a commitment that will lead to rejection and possibly even death; compare 14:27 and see note on Mark 8:34); and (3) follow me (following the example and teachings of Jesus).
Luke 9:26 when he comes in his glory. The second coming (see 21:27; 24:26).
Luke 9:23–27 The following teachings on discipleship are addressed not just to the Twelve but to “all” (v. 23).
Luke 9:27 Some standing here refers to Peter, James, and John, who will witness the transfiguration.
Luke 9:28 About eight days after indicates that this account should be understood in light of vv. 20–27. mountain. See note on Matt. 17:1. to pray. Perhaps Jesus prayed that the three disciples would see him in his glory.
Luke 9:29 dazzling white (literally, “bright as a flash of lightning”). Compare 2 Pet. 1:16–18.
Luke 9:31 Jesus’ departure is his future death, resurrection, and ascension.
Luke 9:33–34 Let us make three tents. This suggestion is a mistake, as indicated by Luke’s comment (not knowing what he said). The cloud shows that God is present (see note on Matt. 17:5).
Luke 9:35 This is my Son. Compare 3:22 and see note on Mark 9:7. Listen to him means to follow Jesus’ teaching (see Luke 9:22–27). It also alludes to Deut. 18:15, confirming that Jesus is the prophet Moses predicted.
Luke 9:36 Kept silent . . . in those days contrasts the situation in Jesus’ day with that of Luke’s day. After Pentecost Peter, James, and John freely proclaimed this event (see 2 Pet. 1:17).
Luke 9:39 a spirit seizes him. In the parallel account in Matt. 17:15, 18 the demon is apparently associated with seizures. But see Matt. 4:24, where seizures are distinguished from demon possession.
Luke 9:40 they could not. The disciples’ inability to heal highlights Jesus’ greater ability.
Luke 9:41 O faithless and twisted generation. See note on Mark 9:19. The first of several such references (see Luke 11:30–32, 50–51; 17:25). For “generation,” see note on 7:31–34.
Luke 9:43a majesty of God. Compare the close tie between the glory of the Son and of the Father (v. 26; see also 8:39).
Luke 9:43b The marveling of the “crowd” (see v. 37) is not necessarily due to faith (compare vv. 41, 43a).
Predictions, Reminders, and Proofs of the Death and Resurrection of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke
| 9:22 | “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected . . . and be killed, and on the third day be raised.” |
| 9:44 | “The Son of Man is about to be delivered into the hands of men.” |
| 12:50 | “I have a baptism to be baptized with.” |
| 13:32 | “I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course.” |
| 13:33 | “for it cannot be that a prophet should perish away from Jerusalem.” |
| 17:25 | “But first he must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation.” |
| 18:32 | “he will be delivered over to the Gentiles and will be mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon.” |
| 18:33 | “after flogging him, they will kill him, and on the third day he will rise.” |
| 24:6–7 | “Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise.” |
| 24:25–26 | “. . . slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” |
| 24:46 | “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead.” |
Luke 9:46 which of them was the greatest. Because they thought the Messiah would be a political liberator, the disciples dream of status, honor, and power, along the lines of the Maccabean revolt (166–160 B.C.).
Luke 9:47 Jesus, knowing . . . their hearts indicates divine omniscience. took a child . . . by his side. See note on Mark 9:36–37.
Luke 9:48 receives this child . . . receives me; receives me receives him who sent me. An example of “step parallelism” (compare 10:16), in which the first thought is raised a step higher in the second thought: a child is received as a representative of Jesus; Jesus is received as a representative of God. who is great. Compare 14:11; 22:26.
Luke 4:16–9:50 The Ministry of Jesus in Galilee. Except for 8:26–39, this next section of Luke takes place in Galilee.
Luke 9:49–50 Because he does not follow with us probably refers to a believer outside the circle of the Twelve. The one who is not against you is for you is the reverse of 11:23. The two sayings should be seen as complementary. See note on Mark 9:40.
Jesus’ Ministry in Galilee
Jesus spent most of his life and ministry in the region of Galilee, a mountainous area in northern Palestine. Jesus grew up in the small hill town of Nazareth, about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) south of the Gentile administrative center of Sepphoris. Soon after he began his public ministry, Jesus relocated to Capernaum on the Sea of Galilee. By Jesus’ time, a thriving fishing industry had developed around the Sea of Galilee, and several of Jesus’ disciples were fishermen.
Luke 9:51 Taken up means “taken up to heaven” and refers to Christ’s ascension. He set his face to go to Jerusalem provides the theme for 9:51–19:27, the largest section of Luke’s Gospel. It points toward Jesus’ cross (23:33), resurrection (24:6), and ascension into heaven (24:51).
Luke 9:53 did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem (compare v. 51). The Samaritans probably rejected the messengers because Samaritans did not accept Jerusalem as the place of worship (see John 4:20), and maybe also because Jesus seemed to be going there to die, so the risk of favoring him was high.
Luke 9:54–55 Jesus rejects the suggestion of James and John (tell fire to come down). His ministry at his first coming is not to bring judgment (see John 3:17) but to proclaim the gospel (see Matt. 11:28).
Luke 9:51–56 As Jesus and his disciples go south from Galilee to Jerusalem, they minister in Samaria.
Jesus’ Final Journey to Jerusalem
Though John mentions several trips to Jerusalem by Jesus during his ministry, Matthew, Mark, and Luke recount only one, which occurred as Jesus prepared for his triumphal entry and subsequent death and resurrection. Beginning at Capernaum, Jesus was apparently diverted from the more direct route when Samaritans refused him access (Luke 9:51–56), so he may have crossed the Jordan and traveled through Perea. Jesus then passed through Jericho and proceeded to Jerusalem.
Jesus’ Final Journey to Jerusalem
Though John mentions several trips to Jerusalem by Jesus during his ministry, Matthew, Mark, and Luke recount only one, which occurred as Jesus prepared for his triumphal entry and subsequent death and resurrection. Beginning at Capernaum, Jesus was apparently diverted from the more direct route when Samaritans refused him access (Luke 9:51–56), so he may have crossed the Jordan and traveled through Perea. Jesus then passed through Jericho and proceeded to Jerusalem.
Jesus Travels to Jerusalem
Though John mentions several trips to Jerusalem by Jesus during his ministry, Matthew, Mark, and Luke recount only one, which occurred as Jesus prepared for his triumphal entry and subsequent death and resurrection. Beginning at Capernaum, Jesus was apparently diverted from the more direct route when Samaritans refused him access (Luke 9:51–56), so he may have crossed the Jordan and traveled through Perea. Jesus then passed through Jericho and proceeded to Jerusalem.
Luke 9:59 To bury a deceased parent was an important duty, and Jesus clearly encouraged honoring one’s parents (Matt. 15:1–9). But Jesus knew that this man’s request was merely an excuse for not following him. Burial at this time in Judaism often involved a year-long period from the time when the body was first buried until a year later when the bones of the deceased were placed in a box.
Luke 9:61 I will follow you, Lord, but. This recalls 1 Kings 19:19–21, where Elijah permitted Elisha to say farewell. Jesus does not permit this. Jesus’ summons to discipleship takes precedence over everything else.
Luke 9:62 Anyone who puts his hand to the plow has to keep looking forward to guide the plow. If he looks back, the plow will quickly veer off course.
James
James and his brother John were fishermen. Together with their father Zebedee, they were mending their nets when Jesus called them to be disciples. Jesus called James and John the “Sons of Thunder” (Mark 3:17; see Luke 9:54). James, along with Peter and John, were the disciples closest to Jesus. They were with the Lord during many of the key moments of his ministry. James was with Jesus at the Transfiguration, where Jesus revealed his divine glory. He was also with Jesus when he healed Jairus’s daughter (Mark 5:37). When Jesus prayed at Gethsemane, he asked James, John, and Peter to share with him the agonizing time of anticipation and sorrow as he faced the cross (Matt. 26:37). James was later executed by Herod, becoming the first apostle to die for his faith (Acts 12:1–3). (Matthew 4:21–22)
Luke 10:1 seventy-two. Many very old and reliable Greek manuscripts have “seventy-two” here and in v. 17, while many other old and reliable manuscripts have “seventy.” In any case, the number probably represents all the nations in the world (compare Genesis 10). Sending them out two by two fulfills the OT requirement for two witnesses (Deut. 19:15).
Luke 10:3 I am sending you. Although only the Twelve are named “apostles” (6:13; 9:10; 22:14; Acts 1:26), others are also “sent ones.” as lambs in the midst of wolves. Jesus warns them of the dangers they face.
Luke 10:4 No sandals probably means not to take an extra pair, since Jesus is telling them what they should not carry. They are to greet no one. Such greetings were lengthy and time-consuming (see 2 Kings 4:29).
Luke 10:5 Peace. See note on John 14:27.
Luke 10:6 son of peace. One who has found the peace that comes with salvation. it will return to you. If faith is not present, the blessing will be useless.
Luke 10:7 for the laborer deserves his wages. Paul alludes to this saying in 1 Cor. 9:14 and quotes it as “Scripture” in 1 Tim. 5:18.
Luke 10:9 Heal the sick assumes the same power and authority as in 9:1 (compare 10:19). The kingdom of God has come refers to his reign in people’s hearts, not to geographical territory. See 9:2; 11:20; 16:16; 17:21. The “kingdom of God” in this present age is precisely the rule and reign of God in people’s hearts and lives.
Luke 10:10 go into its streets. The symbolic act of judgment against a town will be visible and public (compare 9:5).
Luke 10:11 the dust of your town that clings to our feet we wipe off against you. A sign of judgment on those rejecting the gospel (compare Acts 13:51).
Luke 10:12 more bearable on that day. Greater understanding of God’s revelation means greater responsibility.
Luke 10:13–14 Tyre and Sidon. On these cities, see notes on Matt. 11:20–24; Mark 7:24. sitting in sackcloth and ashes. An expression of mourning and repentance. “Sackcloth” is rough cloth made from goat’s hair; “ashes” were either placed on the head (2 Sam. 13:19) or sat upon (Job 2:8; Jonah 3:6).
Luke 10:15 Capernaum will receive the severest judgment because they witnessed Jesus’ ministry and miracles to such a great extent (4:23; 7:1–10) yet rejected him. brought down to Hades. The place of the unrighteous dead (16:22–26).
Luke 10:16 The one who hears you hears me emphasizes the unity of Jesus and his disciples.
Luke 10:18 I saw Satan fall. It is not clear whether Jesus is speaking of a vision by which he saw something in the spiritual realm or if this is simply a declaration of what has been happening. In either case, Satan’s authority and power over people has been broken.
Luke 10:19 Serpents and scorpions are physical dangers that the disciples will face in their preaching, and also symbols of demonic opposition. nothing shall hurt you. See 21:18; Acts 28:3–5.
Luke 10:20 your names are written in heaven. Compare Phil. 4:3; Rev. 3:5; 20:15.
Luke 10:21 rejoiced in the Holy Spirit. See 3:22; 4:1, 18. Father. See note on Matt. 6:9. Lord of heaven and earth. Compare Acts 17:24. Jesus’ rejoicing is due primarily to God’s having revealed (Luke 10:22) the presence of the kingdom and Satan’s fall (vv. 17–18) to little children, that is, to the disciples, who have childlike faith (v. 23). wise and understanding. Wise in the world’s eyes but unwilling to accept the gospel. Compare 1 Cor. 1:19.
Luke 10:22 All things . . . handed over to me. See note on Matt. 11:27. anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Compare John 14:6; Acts 4:12.
Luke 10:25 what shall I do? Compare 18:18; Acts 16:30. eternal life. Compare Luke 18:18, 30; see note on John 3:16.
Luke 10:26 What is written in the Law? For Jesus, the OT is the standard of faith and practice (compare 18:19–20).
Luke 10:27 Matthew, Mark, and Luke all include the words heart (emotions, will, and deepest convictions), soul (the immaterial part of a person’s being), and mind (reason; this term is lacking in Deut. 6:5). Matthew (22:37) alone lacks the term strength.
Luke 10:28 do this, and you will live. Jesus is about to show the lawyer that he falls far short of following these commands (see note on Mark 10:19).
Luke 10:29 who is my neighbor? A deceitful question, because the lawyer was trying to eliminate responsibility for others by making some people “non-neighbors” (see note on v. 36).
Luke 10:30 Jericho. See note on Matt. 20:29. The Jericho road, still visible today, included long stretches of rocky terrain that made it convenient for robbers. The road descended (down) about 3,200 feet (975 m) in the 18 miles (29 km) from Jerusalem to Jericho.
Luke 10:31 passed by on the other side. A good picture of the priest’s unwillingness to love his neighbor.
Luke 10:32 Levite. A member of the tribe of Levi. The Levites assisted the priests.
Luke 10:33 It would have been unthinkable for a Samaritan to help a Jew (see John 4:9; 8:48; see note on John 4:4). Loving one’s neighbor involves showing care and compassion even to those with whom one would not normally have any relationship, but who are now in need (compare Luke 6:27, 35).
Luke 10:34–35 two denarii. The equivalent of two days’ wages.
Luke 10:36 Which of these . . . proved to be a neighbor? Jesus’ question corrects the lawyer’s deceitful question (v. 29). The question is not “who is my neighbor?” but “how can I be a neighbor?”
Luke 10:25–37 The parable of the good Samaritan is an example of how the “wise and understanding” (v. 21) do not understand even the simplest commands of Scripture (compare v. 27 with Lev. 19:18).
The Parables of Jesus
| Parable | Matthew | Mark | Luke |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Purpose of the Parables | 13:10–17 | 4:10–12 | 8:9–10 |
| The Sower | 13:1–9, 18–23 | 4:1–9, 13–20 | 8:4–8, 11–15 |
| The Weeds | 13:24–30, 36–43 | 4:26–29 | |
| The Mustard Seed | 13:31–32 | 4:30–32 | 13:18–19 |
| The Leaven | 13:33 | 13:20–21 | |
| The Hidden Treasure | 13:44 | ||
| The Pearl of Great Value | 13:45–46 | ||
| The Net | 13:47–50 | ||
| The Lost Sheep | 18:10–14 | 15:3–7 | |
| The Unforgiving Servant | 18:23–35 | ||
| The Two Sons | 21:28–32 | ||
| The Tenants | 21:33–44 | 12:1–11 | 20:9–18 |
| The Wedding Feast | 22:1–14 | 14:16–24 | |
| The Ten Virgins | 25:1–13 | ||
| The Talents | 25:14–30 | 19:11–27 | |
| The Good Samaritan | 10:29–37 | ||
| The Rich Fool | 12:16–21 | ||
| The Barren Fig Tree | 13:6–9 | ||
| The Wedding Feast | 14:7–11 | ||
| The Lost Coin | 15:8–10 | ||
| The Prodigal Son | 15:11–32 | ||
| The Dishonest Manager | 16:1–9 | ||
| The Rich Man and Lazarus | 16:19–31 | ||
| The Persistent Widow | 18:1–8 | ||
| The Pharisee and the Tax Collector | 18:9–14 |
Luke 10:38–42 village. Bethany (see John 12:1; see note on John 11:1). who sat at the Lord’s feet. A disciple’s proper place (compare Luke 8:35; Acts 22:3); unlike some in his culture, Jesus encouraged women to study the Scriptures. you are anxious . . . about many things. See Luke 8:14; 12:11, 22–30; 21:34. Mary has chosen the good portion echoes OT passages where close fellowship with the Lord is one’s “portion” in life (see Ps. 16:5; 73:26; 142:5). Mary has chosen this, and it will not be taken away from her—neither now (to help Martha in the kitchen) nor for all eternity.
Fact: Children
Jesus welcomed children and sometimes used them as examples of humility (10:21; 18:15–17). He taught that such humility was necessary for his followers (see Matt. 18:3–4). God delights in showing mercy to those who are humble (see Luke 1:52–53).
Fact: The coming of God’s kingdom
The coming of God’s kingdom (11:2) is an important theme in the Gospels. It refers to the advance of God’s rule over all creation, especially as sinful men and women put their trust in Jesus and submit to God’s authority in their lives.
Mary, Sister of Lazarus
Mary, along with her sister Martha and her brother Lazarus, was a close friend of Jesus. Mary was intensely devoted to Jesus, choosing to sit at his feet and listen to his teaching while Martha struggled to be a good hostess (see Luke 10:38-42). Martha was annoyed that Mary didn’t help her, but Jesus praised Mary’s decision, saying that it demonstrated her desire for close fellowship with the Lord. On another occasion Mary was scolded by the disciples, who were indignant that she anointed Jesus with costly ointment rather than selling it and giving the money to the poor. Again, Jesus defended Mary’s actions of humility and devotion. (John 12:3)
Martha
Martha was the sister of Mary and Lazarus. The three of them were close friends of Jesus. Martha welcomed Jesus into her home in Bethany, where she prepared him meals as he taught. A conscientious hostess, Martha busied herself with serving her guests while Mary chose instead to listen to Jesus’ teaching. This frustrated Martha, but Jesus gently rebuked her and defended Mary’s desire to learn from him (10:38–42). It was Martha and Mary who sent word to Jesus when their brother Lazarus became ill (John 11). Even though Lazarus had died by the time Jesus arrived at their home, Martha believed that God could work a miracle through Jesus. When Jesus gave Martha an opportunity to express her faith, she replied, “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world” (John 11:27). (Luke 10:38–42)
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Listen NowDive Deeper | Luke 9-10
"[W]hat shall I do to inherit eternal life?" That's the question being asked by the lawyer, an expert in the Mosaic Law. The law was clear—love your neighbor as yourself (Leviticus 19:18). That is the character of God. Now Jesus (God incarnate) is on the scene, revealing to us his heart behind the command and what it looks like to live it out perfectly.
In the text we see examples of two people (priest and Levite), both of whom also would have known the command, and yet they fail miserably. These, my fellow believers, are you and I, on the daily. We are just as Paul describes himself in Romans 7:19. All of us desire to do what is right, but we often fall short. The Samaritan, on the other hand, does not. Not only does he move in with compassion, but he goes above and beyond the minimum. And what is striking about this is that both the priest and the Levite are here by chance, whereas the Samaritan is on a journey.
What speaks to me here? As followers of Christ who inherit eternal life by grace through faith, we would do well to "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves." (Philippians 2:3) We must walk in wisdom, making the best use of our time, as Colossians 4:5 says.
And what is the best use of your time? Is it doing what you want, or is it following after the purposes of our God and King who gives your life meaning and purpose?
So what does all of this actually mean? It means that no matter where we find ourselves at a moment, whether by chance or purpose, we must be interruptible. We must be ready and willing to meet the needs of those around us, regardless of who we may think they are or what our personal agenda says. If they are in our proximity, they are our neighbor, and they are made in the image of God, worthy of honor and respect.
This month's memory verse
"I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."
– John 15:5
Discussion Questions
1. Do you find living on purpose for God by serving others more enjoyable than living for yourself? Why or why not? What does it mean to you to live for God?
2. When was the last time you served someone as the Samaritan did in this story—when you allowed the Lord to interrupt your plans to be his hands and feet?
3. When has someone loved and served you with compassion, going the extra mile as the Samaritan did in this story?
4. I have enjoyed the opportunity to meditate on and pray through this passage of Scripture over the last month or so. When was the last time you took time to meditate for an extended time on a passage of Scripture? What was the passage of Scripture, and how did God use it to transform you?