Encounters With Jesus [Part 3] Get Off Your Donkey

February 1, 2026
Encounters With Jesus [Part 3] Get Off Your Donkey

Luke 10:25-37

1) When you’re more concerned with looking right than being changed, you’ll chase technicalities over transformation. (vs. 25-29)

2) Religion that stays mounted will ride right past those suffering or in need.  Faith that never interrupts you, probably hasn’t transformed you. (vs. 30-32)

    • Busyness is the most respectable way to disobey God.

    • The “I’ll pray for you” dodge.

 3) Mercy gets off the donkey and gets involved in the mess. Compassion fuels action. (vs. 33-35)

    • The Samaritan shows mercy and compassion in 7 actions he took:

      • He saw him (v. 33) — not glanced, but took time to notice

      • He took pity (felt compassion) (v. 33) — gut-level mercy

      • He went to him (v. 34) — proximity, moved toward him

      • He bandaged wounds (v. 34) — hands-on help

      • He poured oil & wine (v. 34) — used his own resources

      • He lifted him onto his animal, brought him to an inn, & took care of him (v. 34) — inconvenience & sacrifice

      • He paid and promised more if needed (v. 35) — ongoing commitment

4) Jesus flips the question: “Who is my neighbor?” -> “Will You be one?” (vs. 36-37)

  • What we do in life echoes in eternity.