The Golden Rule of the Good Samaritan
The Golden Rule of the Good Samaritan
Dr. See Ing Or | 29 June 2025 | Luke 10:25–37
This sermon takes us on a reflective journey through one of the most familiar and yet challenging parables of Jesus — the parable of the Good Samaritan. But rather than just focusing on the “what happened,” lets explores how people live, based on the rules they follow: the Iron Rule, the Silver Rule, and finally, the life-changing Golden Rule.
1. The Iron Rule – “What’s yours is mine, and I’ll take it.”
Represented by the robbers in Luke 10:30, this rule is one of selfishness, greed, and domination. It’s the mindset of those who are driven by the love of power and money — a path that ultimately leads to destruction.
“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil…” — 1 Timothy 6:10
The robbers were not good neighbours — they were consumed by worldly lusts and desires.
“...denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously...” — Titus 2:12
This is the lowest rule of life — where others are seen as obstacles or resources to exploit.
2. The Silver Rule – “What’s mine is mine, and I’ll keep it.”
This was the unspoken attitude of the Priest and the Levite. They didn’t harm the man, but they did nothing to help either.
“...he passed by on the other side.” — Luke 10:31–32
This rule says: “As long as I don't hurt you, I’m doing okay.” It sounds respectable — but it's rooted in indifference, busyness, or selfishness.
It reflects the attitude of the rich fool in Luke 12:13–21 — someone who stores up earthly wealth but is not rich toward God.
It’s a wake-up call to believers: Are we passing by those in need because we’re “too busy,” or too focused on our own lives?
3. The Golden Rule – “What’s mine is yours, if you need it.”
The Samaritan lived out this rule with love, compassion, and sacrifice.
“He had compassion… bandaged his wounds… brought him to an inn, and took care of him.” — Luke 10:33–34
This is what it means to love your neighbour as yourself (James 2:8). The Samaritan didn’t just feel compassion — he acted on it. He invested his time, effort, and resources to restore someone he didn’t even know.
“...whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you.” — Luke 10:35
This is the rule of heaven. It reflects the heart of God — one of mercy, generosity, and selfless love.
A Heartfelt Reflection
We’ve learned how to take from others. We’ve also learned how to hold back from others. But now, Jesus teaches us how to give to others.
Jesus ends the parable with a simple, yet life-altering command:
“Go and do likewise.” — Luke 10:37
Let us not just admire the Samaritan — let us be the Samaritan.
Final Takeaway
Start by sharing what is most valuable — not just our possessions, but the Gospel, the hope and love of Jesus Christ. As the closing hymn reminded us:
“More about Jesus would I know…”
Let’s share more of Jesus with the world — through compassion, mercy, and action.
Which rule will you live by today?
Let it be the Golden Rule — the rule of love.
