(a) Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?' How did Jesus deal with this question? (b) In what two ways could a Christian show concern for others...

Answer Details

(a) How Jesus dealt with the question about inheriting eternal life (Luke 10:25-37)

• A lawyer stood up to test Jesus, asking, Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?
• Jesus threw the question back to him, asking, What is written in the law? How do you read it?
• The lawyer answered by quoting the two great commandments: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind, and love your neighbour as yourself.
• Jesus commended him, saying, You have answered rightly; do this and you will live.
• But the lawyer, wishing to justify himself, asked, And who is my neighbour?
• Jesus replied with the Parable of the Good Samaritan: a man travelling from Jerusalem to Jericho fell among robbers who stripped, beat and left him half dead. A priest and a Levite saw him but passed by on the other side. A Samaritan, however, had compassion, bound his wounds, poured on oil and wine, set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, cared for him and paid the innkeeper to look after him.
• Jesus then asked, Which of these proved neighbour to the man? The lawyer replied, The one who showed mercy. Jesus said, Go and do likewise.

(b) Two ways a Christian could show concern for others

1. Helping the needy and the suffering by giving food, clothing, shelter, money or medical care to the poor, the sick and victims of misfortune.
2. Showing compassion and kindness to all, without regard to tribe, race or status, and offering comfort, encouragement and practical assistance to those in distress.