Meaning and Context

The context of Luke 10:29 centers around Jesus' teaching on the commandments and the question of who qualifies as a neighbor. The lawyer's question reflects a desire to limit the scope of his obligation to love others, showing a common tendency to interpret scriptural commands in a self-serving manner.

Exegesis from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the insincerity in the lawyer's question, suggesting that it is not just about finding an answer but about justifying his actions. He notes how this query leads to the parable of the Good Samaritan, illustrating the true meaning of neighborly love that transcends ethnic and religious boundaries.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke points out the cultural implications of the term 'neighbor' and how this legalistic approach reflects a misunderstanding of the broader implications of God's law. He highlights that Jesus seeks to broaden the definition of neighbour to include any person in need, regardless of social or ethnic ties.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes suggests that the lawyer's intent was to lessen his obligations under the law. He argues that the question implies a common human tendency to define limits to love and service, which Jesus directly challenges through His response, leading to a deeper understanding of true neighborliness.

Cross-References and Thematic Connections

Luke 10:29 connects to several other Bible verses that explore similar themes:

• Leviticus 19:18: "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." This foundational commandment underlies the ethical discussions in the New Testament.
• Matthew 22:39: "And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." This reaffirms the importance of neighborly love in the context of the greatest commandments.
• John 13:34: "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you." This verse shifts the focus from self-interest to a selfless model of love.
• Romans 13:10: "Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law." Signifying a practical application of love in the community.
• Galatians 5:14: "For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." Paul echoes the sentiment of loving others as a central tenet of faith.
• James 2:8: "If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well." This verse emphasizes that love is not merely an ideal but a practical obligation.
• 1 John 4:20: "If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar." Here love for others is linked directly to love for God.

Conclusion

In summary, Luke 10:29 serves as a crucial reminder of the meaning of neighborly love, challenging believers to expand their understanding beyond legalistic definitions. The connections between this verse and others illustrate a consistent biblical theme about the nature of love and responsibility towards others.

This verse encourages a reflective study using cross-referencing Biblical texts, creating a richer understanding of the scriptural calls to love. Engaging in cross-reference Bible study can lead to profound insights into how various parts of scripture interact, revealing a coherent message of God's love and our response to it.

Helpful Resources

For further exploration of connections between Bible verses, consider these tools:

• Bible concordance
• Bible cross-reference guide
• Cross-reference Bible study methodologies
• Comprehensive Bible cross-reference materials
• Resources for interpreting Biblical themes through cross-references