Luke 10:35 - A Comprehensive Commentary

Scripture Reference: Luke 10:35

“And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.”

Introduction

The passage in Luke 10:35 encapsulates a profound teaching moment in Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan, emphasizing compassion, mercy, and the call to love one’s neighbor. This commentary synthesizes insights from various public domain sources to illuminate the depth of this verse as it pertains to Christian ethics and theology.

Exegesis and Context

In the context of the Good Samaritan parable, Matthew Henry provides critical insight into the actions of the Samaritan, who represents the ideal love for one's neighbor irrespective of societal norms. This juxtaposition against the behavior of the priest and Levite illustrates the expectations of God’s law in practical terms.

Albert Barnes emphasizes the Samaritan's commitment to the wounded man, reflecting a readiness to both meet immediate needs and ensure that future requirements are addressed. The giving of two pence symbolizes sufficient provision for care, while also demonstrating the Samaritan’s willingness to invest personally in the well-being of another.

Theological Implications

The theological implications of Luke 10:35 extend beyond mere monetary compassion. Adam Clarke notes that this act foreshadows the Christian’s responsibility towards others—an unreserved love that not only assists in times of crisis but also prepares for ongoing support. This aligns with the teachings of Jesus about sacrificial love and care.

Character of the Samaritan

The Samaritan is a figure of rich theological significance. Matthew Henry describes him as embodying the very essence of neighborly love, breaking down ethnic and social barriers. His actions challenge the listeners’ prejudices and expand their understanding of who qualifies as 'neighbor.'

Financial Commitment

The mention of two pence has been interpreted differently amongst scholars. Albert Barnes suggests that this was a considerable sum for two days' worth of care and represents a sacrificial commitment to another’s welfare. This challenges contemporary believers to consider their financial resources in light of stewardship and charity.

Promise of Recompense

The Samaritan’s promise to repay the host additional expenses introduces a theme of accountability and integrity. Adam Clarke notes that this mirrors the biblical principle of doing good with an understanding of future retribution. It emphasizes the servant nature of aiding others, leading to a greater discussion of God’s provision and justice.

Practical Applications

For pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars, the principles drawn from Luke 10:35 can be transformative:

• Embrace Diversity: The Samaritan’s actions challenge Christians to transcend cultural and ethnic biases in their caregiving.
• Invest in Others: The quote highlights the necessity of personally investing in others' lives, which could be financial, emotional, or spiritual.
• Community Support: Believers are urged to create a community that looks after its marginalized, reflecting the church’s role in society.
• Accountability: The Samaritan’s commitment to repay the host prompts discussions on how we as Christians can maintain accountability in our commitments to care.

Conclusion

Luke 10:35 serves as a powerful reminder of the Church’s duty to embody love, care, and commitment to those around us. It calls us to not only react in times of immediate distress but to prepare and plan for sustained support. Engaging with these themes enriches our understanding of God’s kingdom and our place within it. Through the lens of the Good Samaritan, we are encouraged to reflect Christ’s love in practical, often sacrificial ways.