July 16, 2025 • 20 mins
Who are our neighbors? The people who live next to us? The people who look like us, think like us, or vote for us?
Jesus confronts the prevailing belief that only a few people are worthy of our love, trust, and respect. The Parable of the Good Samaritan stands as a beacon of light against the darkness of prejudice, hate, and tribalism.
Today's Bible verse is James 2:1, from the King James Version.
Download the Pray.com app for more Christian content including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.
Pray.com is the digital destination for faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
My brothers don't hold the faith of our Lord Jesus
Christ of Glory with partiality. James two to one. Dear Lord,
today we thank you for not showing partiality or prejudice.
The love you displayed on the cross broke walls of race, culture,
and creed. You came to save the world. Through you,
(00:23):
every nation is blessed. We pray that you would give
us open hearts to those different from us. May backgrounds
or small preferences never stop us from showing your love.
We want to be people of faith, blessing those around us,
with no strings attached or signs of favoritism. When our
(00:46):
biases come up, renew our minds and remind us of
the acceptance offered to everyone who calls upon your name.
In your mighty name, we pray Amen, thank you for
praying with me today. You're listening to the Jesus Podcast,
prepare to immerse yourself in a dramatic retelling of Christ's
(01:09):
most iconic parables. Follow this podcast on whatever platform you're
listening to. Doing so will keep you updated, but also
help us get discovered by more people. We want the
story of Jesus to be known throughout the world. Thanks
for making that possible. The young lawyer was meandering around
(01:33):
the outskirts of Judea. He enjoyed bouncing from small town
to small town, attending synagogues and debating with the local teachers.
This hobby was innocent, since he was on a quest
for knowledge. He was most fulfilled when intellectually stimulated and
(01:53):
sought the greatest challenges the law of God had to offer.
Many people bottled Matthias, eager to watch him debate the
scriptures and the philosophical quandaries of the universe. So when
he had heard Jesus was in the region, he could
not help but fantasize about speaking with him. Jesus was
(02:16):
walking in the outer region of Judea. As he was
tending to the needs of the people, the young lawyer
approached him. He held himself with the arrogant glow of
a student. There was an unearthed confidence exuding from him.
His cocky posture was showcased in stark contrast to Jesus'
(02:38):
humble position as he mended a woman's broken foot. He
approached Jesus with a crowd of eager patrons behind him.
Jesus smiled at the young man and greeted him. The
young lawyer went straight for his question, ready to engage
Jesus in a discussion for the ages.
Speaker 2 (02:58):
Teja, how shall I inherit eternal life?
Speaker 1 (03:03):
He asked, allowing the crowd behind him to prepare themselves.
Jesus stood to his feet and wiped his hands on
his robe. They were dirty from working with the people
all day. He looked at the crowd, then walked over
to a bucket of water nearby to wash his face well,
Jesus began with a sigh and a smile.
Speaker 2 (03:26):
What does it say in the law? You've read the law?
Speaker 1 (03:28):
Asshome, The young lawyer was jumpy to answer, ready to
begin this discussion with Jesus.
Speaker 2 (03:35):
You shall love the Lord, your God with all your heart, soul,
mind and strength. You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
Speaker 1 (03:42):
The lawyer replied. Brilliant, Jesus exclaimed, with a clap of
his hands. Very good.
Speaker 2 (03:49):
Do these things, and you shall live into eternity.
Speaker 1 (03:52):
Jesus waved and turned back to another person in need
of healing. The lawyer stopped him, annoyed that he could
not keep jesus attention.
Speaker 2 (04:02):
Wait a second, Jesus, I'm not finished with my question.
Speaker 1 (04:06):
The young man was eager for a challenge, desperate for
an intellectual equal. Jesus glanced at the young man and
sat down. He gestured for him to continue his question.
Speaker 2 (04:19):
What are the boundaries of who we consider our neighbor?
Scripture is unclear who is worthy of love and who isn't.
Certainly that varies from person to person.
Speaker 1 (04:31):
The lawyer retorted it was a common question of the day,
a question that certainly needed an answer. People often wondered
who they needed to love and who they were allowed
to ignore. Jesus sighed and shook his head. He looked
(04:52):
up to the young lawyer and gestured for him to
sit beside him. He then motioned for the crowd to
come in close and listen. Jesus began a story for
the lawyer. It became apparent that this would not be
a conversation but a lesson.
Speaker 2 (05:10):
Let me tell you a story about a merchant traveling
from Jerusalem to Jericho.
Speaker 3 (05:17):
Who is our neighbor? Who is worthy of our respect
and our love? The people who agree with us, the
people who vote like us, The people who look like us,
act like us, talk like us. While the world teaches
tribalism Jesus offers a different perspective on who is worthy
of our love and respect. Welcome to another episode of
(05:38):
the Jesus Podcast. I'm Zach frompray dot Com. You're humble
host and guide through these epic stories of redemption and transformation.
We're beginning a new mini series today through the Parables
of Jesus. For the next twenty episodes, we will be
swept away and dramatic retellings of Jesus's most iconic parables.
These stories go into more detail than Jesus gave O.
(06:00):
We'll give these characters names and follow them as they
learn timeless lessons. Through storytelling grounded in scripture, we hope
to gain a deeper appreciation for the truth of Christ's
parables and enrich our own faith for the mission ahead.
Today's story is part one of the Parable of the
Good Samaritan. Jesus gave us this story to answer the
(06:21):
profound question who is my neighbor. It's a simple question
at first glance, but it's packed with commentary on how
humans split and divide into tribes in different groups. Another
way of asking our question is this, who can I
trust and who deserves my kindness? I don't think I'm
going out on a limb by saying our culture seems
(06:41):
pretty divided at the moment. We live in a world
ripped apart by tribalism. The world wants to categorize all
of us into groups based on race, economic status, cultural background,
or political party. Even the Church tends to be divided
by culture and denomination. Categorizing people helps us to figure
out who's safe and who isn't. But defining people by
(07:01):
their group is a slippery slope, isn't it. Let's dive
into the story of the Good Samaritan, narrated by Jesus.
We'll meet a man named Ezra who wrestles with some
preconceived notions about a specific group of people. He's going
to be taken on a journey to answer the profound
question who is my neighbor?
Speaker 2 (07:21):
The streets of Jerusalem were alive and bustling with people
buying and selling. Ezra weaved through the busy marketplace looking
for a few final things before returning to Jericho. He
stopped at a vendor selling dried figs and dates. The
sweet smell of fig cakes wafted in from.
Speaker 1 (07:41):
Behind the cart.
Speaker 2 (07:42):
Shalem, how much for a sack of dates and three
fig kegs, Ezra asked the merchant. The portly man stroked
his beard for a moment, then smiled.
Speaker 4 (07:53):
Oh, for a fine young man like yourself, one and
a half denarius. I'll even throw in a fresh fig
plucked straight from the orchard this morning.
Speaker 2 (08:03):
You're very kind, Ezra replied, as he retrieved the coins
from his purse strap to his side. I'm traveling home
to Jericho to day. We don't have figs like these
here in Jerusalem.
Speaker 4 (08:15):
The road between Jerusalem and Jericho is dangerous. My friend,
be sure to travel by day and with a group.
I've had vendors lose hundreds of denaris worth of goods
to robbers and bandits.
Speaker 2 (08:28):
I wish there was an alternative route, but I have
no choice. Thank you for your kindness and the cakes.
Before Ezra left, a man approached the cart beside him.
He was tall, broad shouldered, and carried a large pack
strapped to his back. The colors of his tunic were distinct,
with the patterns revealing the tribe he was born from.
(08:49):
This man wasn't a Jew, nor was he a gentile. No,
he was something worse. Do you have any reason cakes
for sale. I will be traveling in the old is
always better with something the sweet. His accent was unmistakable.
This man was a Samaritan. Ezra immediately clutched his purse
(09:11):
and furrowed his brow in disgust. The vendors kind and
jolly demeanor shifted, his jaw clenched and his chest puffed out.
Speaker 4 (09:21):
I don't sell to Samaritan dogs. Go and muddy up
someone else's business.
Speaker 2 (09:27):
There was a long pause from the Samaritan. He stood there,
keeping Ezra in anxious suspense. What was he going to
do next? Would he flip over the cart? Would he
curse the vendor and steal his goods? Ezra thought of bolting,
but the Samaritan left with a sigh. The man watched
the Samaritan leave and shook his head.
Speaker 4 (09:46):
Worse than gentiles, those Samaritans. You better watch yourself on
the roads. The trail to Samaria cuts through the road
to Jericho. Be safe, my friend.
Speaker 2 (09:58):
The vendor gave Ezra the rest of his change and
an extra fig for the road. Ezra a bowed his
head and departed, watching for that Samaritan. Ezra gathered everything
he needed for his journey to Jericho. He passed the
city gates, walking down a small path switched back to
the base of the road. A large well was dug
(10:19):
there for travelers to stop and drink. Ezra waited a while,
hoping a group would arrive for him to travel with,
but nobody came. Eventually, the same samaritan from the marketplace
traveled down the trail with his donkey. Ezra gulped and
suddenly wished he had brought some sort of protection. The
man arrived at the well and drew some for himself
and the donkey. He made himself comfortable, unloading a few supplies.
(10:42):
He was going to be there for a while. Ezra's
eyes shifted from the samaritan to the road. I'd rather
take my chances with the road alone than be here
with this samaritan, he thought to himself. There's no telling
what this man is capable of. Ezra darted for the road.
A few paces in he saw another traveler strolling in
the same Ezra tightened the straps on his pack and
(11:03):
waved towards him. Sir, would I be able to accompany
you on the road, he asked, nervously, looking back at
the samaritan. The stranger gave him a pleasant and warm smile.
Oh of course, my boy, he said with a friendly voice.
He looked back at the Samaritan and whispered, there's no
telling who you're run into on the road. Best to
(11:24):
stay together. I'm grateful, Ezra replied, with a sigh of relief.
He looked back at the well. The Samaritan glanced over
at them, face stoic and unreadable. He gave a nervous
smile and followed his new friend on the road. I
am Ezra. You may call me Zebel, the stranger replied.
(11:44):
Is Jericho where you call home? Jerusalem is my home,
but I travel often to and fro from Jericho for
er business. A smile curled up the man's narrow face.
My business associates are ahead of me. I had to
stay behind to settle some impersonal matters. But with luck,
(12:05):
you'll catch up to them before the sunset. And they
travel slow. The more the merrier, Ezra said, glancing back
at the well. The Samaritan was still resting there. Ezra
hoped he wouldn't see him again. The two traveled for
a few hours, exchanging small talk and discussing trivial matters.
Speaker 1 (12:22):
Like the weather.
Speaker 2 (12:23):
The sun was suspended firmly in the middle of the sky,
offering no mercy against Ezra's neck. The road was untouched
by the Romans, meaning it was unkept and littered with holes.
The unsteady ground strained his knees and back, and the
sun's relentless rays made the trek even more draining. The
(12:43):
two men arrived at a decline with the road narrowed
between two drop offs. On the one side of the
road was a jagged hill, on the other a dried
creek bed of rocks and withered moss. Zevil gestured to
a small path breaking off beside the mountain. Ah, here
it is, This is how will catch up to my
friends before dusk. Zevil pivoted and began walking down the path.
(13:07):
Isra paused and scanned his surroundings. He wasn't sure veering
off the path was a good idea Zevel looked back
and smiled, Come come, This is the shortcut I always
use when I'm not with a large group. It cuts
right through the canyon and meets back out at the
main road. Ezra looked behind him, wondering if the Samaritan
would catch up soon. Then he looked forward. The blistering
(13:29):
sun still covered the road, but Zevel's shortcut was shaded
by the canyon. Lead the way, Ezra said nervously. Zevel
smiled and continued. They scaled down the steep, jagged path
until they were entirely covered by shade. It was a
pleasant break for Ezra. Once they were hidden in the shadows,
Zevil's pace quickened. Ezra tried to keep up, but lost
(13:52):
sight of Zevel around the corner. White up, Ezra called out.
He turned the corner, only to be punched in the
jar and fall to the dirt. He looked up. A
large man stood over him with a rope tied around
his fist. Another man, shorter but wider, approached with a
heavy stick. Behind them was Zebl, wearing a menacing smile. Zevil,
(14:13):
what are you doing? Oh ah ah oh oh ah
ah oh, Israel, forgive me for not introducing you. These
are the business associates I was telling you about. Turns
out they weren't too far ahead of us after all.
Ezra leaped to his feet and tried to run, but
(14:33):
the shorter man struck him in the back with his stick.
He fell face first in the dirt. And winced in pain.
The taller man lifted Ezra by his tunic and punched
him in the ribs before throwing him against the stones.
They ripped his pack from him, removing his purse, and
began beating him senseless. Isra shouted for help, but nobody
heard his cries. He begged for mercy, but there was
(14:54):
no room in Zebhyl's corrupt heart. They beat Ezra in
such a way that he hoped to die. The pain
was unbearable, and each moment felt like a lifetime. He
felt his bones break, he felt his ribs crack, He
felt all the strength in his arms leave him as
he desperately pulled away. Finally, the men stopped, not out
of mercy, but because the job had been done. Zebel
(15:18):
took one of the fig cakes out of the pack
and took a bite. With his mouth full. He patted
Ezra on the head and said, thanks for the lunch,
by friend. I pray you'll find your way safely back
to Jericho. Watch out for the Samaritans out there. The
three men chuckled and escaped back into the shadows. Ezra
lae there, bones cracked and muscles bruised. His face was
(15:40):
smallen and bloody beyond recognition. Every breath brought a sharp
pain shooting through his lungs. With every ounce of strength
he had left, he dragged himself around the corner, desperately
trying to get back to the road. He made it
to the bottom of the hill, but it took everything
out of him. He propped himself up on one of
the rocks, straining to get back up, but his strength
(16:04):
failed and he slipped back. He hit his head on
the ground below. The sun's harsh rays was seated behind
the hills. The cool bite of night whistled in through
the canyons. Ezra lay there, slowly losing consciousness. He looked
up at the road, so close, yet so far. Finally,
as the sun descended over the hills, Ezra fell asleep.
(16:26):
I'm shure if he would awake the next morning.
Speaker 3 (16:33):
Did you notice Ezra's preconceived notions flipped upside down? As
it turns out, he couldn't trust someone just because they
looked like him or came from the same place as him.
The person Ezra thought he could trust ended up being
his enemy. That's the danger we find ourselves in when
we judge people based on their group, and not by
them as individuals. The character, the heart, the inward man.
(16:56):
Here's a timeless truth for us, spoken by the Lord
to Samuel when he was choosing a king. First, Samuel
sixteen seven says, but the Lord said to Samuel, do
not look at his appearance or on the height of
his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord
does not see as man sees. Man looks at the
outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. In
other words, looks can be deceiving on the outside. This
(17:18):
man that we named Zavool seemed harmless. He looked like Ezra,
came from the same place as Ezra, and spoke like him.
But Zavool was a wolf in sheep's clothing. The culture
we come from, the family we are raised in, or
the nationality we claim, doesn't define us as a whole.
It doesn't define us as much as the substance of
our hearts. Christ came to unify people from different backgrounds, statuses,
(17:41):
and cultures. The early Church, led by Paul and the
other Apostles, was the first movement where slaves and masters
sat together as equals, Jews and gentiles worked and worshiped
side by side. Former priests and prostitutes prayed together. Regal
Greeks and sloppy barbarians exchanged conversations about life, perse and heaven.
I want to share this beautiful passage from Aphesians two
(18:04):
with you, and I think it beautifully illustrates this point.
Aphesians two fourteen through twenty two says this, for Jesus
is our peace, who has made the two groups one,
and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility,
by setting aside in his flesh the law, with its
commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself
(18:24):
one new humanity of the two, thus making peace and
in one body, to reconcile both them to God and
the cross by which he put to death their hostility.
He came and preached peace to you who were far away,
in peace to those who were near, For through him
we both have access to the Father by one spirit. Consequently,
(18:44):
you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens
with God's people, and are also members of his household
built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with
Jesus Christ himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the
whole building is joined together and rises to become a
holy temple. In the Lord and in Him. You two
are being built together to become a dwelling in which
(19:06):
God lives by his spirit. Amen. Jesus came to break
down two different types of walls. The first wall was
between us and God. He made away by his sacrifice
on the Cross for us to be unified with God.
The Bible says that we were once alienated and hostile
from God, but we've been brought near and we've been
called children of God now. But the second wall of
(19:28):
barrier that God came to break down is the walls
between people groups. Through Salvation and Christ, we get to
have access in peace with God where it didn't exist.
We're no longer enemies with Him but beloved children. And
now all of those who call themselves children of God
get to enjoy unity and an unbreakable bond. Here at
prey dot com, we are blown away that we have
(19:49):
listeners from the United States, the Philippines, Mexico, Uganda, Japan,
and Germany. Each and every one of you are bonded
by something that transcends borders, culture, creed where unified in Christ.
Paul said that there is neither June nor Greek slave,
nor free male nor female. The labels that previously divided
us don't matter anymore. All that matters now is how
(20:11):
your hearts have been transformed by Christ and how we
are all collectively upwardly reaching towards him. In our next episode,
Ezra is going to learn that hard but beautiful lesson
the people he expects to help him won't help at all,
but the person he lea suspects to give him aid
will come to his rescue. Join us tomorrow for part
two of The Good Samaritan. If you've been enjoying this podcast,
(20:34):
be sure to leave us a review and download the
Prey dot com app for more epic devotionals, sermons, and
stories to give you wisdom and enricher faith forever
My brothers don't hold the faith of our Lord Jesus
Christ of Glory with partiality. James two to one. Dear Lord,
today we thank you for not showing partiality or prejudice.
The love you displayed on the cross broke walls of race, culture,
and creed. You came to save the world. Through you,
(00:23):
every nation is blessed. We pray that you would give
us open hearts to those different from us. May backgrounds
or small preferences never stop us from showing your love.
We want to be people of faith, blessing those around us,
with no strings attached or signs of favoritism. When our
(00:46):
biases come up, renew our minds and remind us of
the acceptance offered to everyone who calls upon your name.
In your mighty name, we pray Amen, thank you for
praying with me today. You're listening to the Jesus Podcast,
prepare to immerse yourself in a dramatic retelling of Christ's
(01:09):
most iconic parables. Follow this podcast on whatever platform you're
listening to. Doing so will keep you updated, but also
help us get discovered by more people. We want the
story of Jesus to be known throughout the world. Thanks
for making that possible. The young lawyer was meandering around
(01:33):
the outskirts of Judea. He enjoyed bouncing from small town
to small town, attending synagogues and debating with the local teachers.
This hobby was innocent, since he was on a quest
for knowledge. He was most fulfilled when intellectually stimulated and
(01:53):
sought the greatest challenges the law of God had to offer.
Many people bottled Matthias, eager to watch him debate the
scriptures and the philosophical quandaries of the universe. So when
he had heard Jesus was in the region, he could
not help but fantasize about speaking with him. Jesus was
(02:16):
walking in the outer region of Judea. As he was
tending to the needs of the people, the young lawyer
approached him. He held himself with the arrogant glow of
a student. There was an unearthed confidence exuding from him.
His cocky posture was showcased in stark contrast to Jesus'
(02:38):
humble position as he mended a woman's broken foot. He
approached Jesus with a crowd of eager patrons behind him.
Jesus smiled at the young man and greeted him. The
young lawyer went straight for his question, ready to engage
Jesus in a discussion for the ages.
Speaker 2 (02:58):
Teja, how shall I inherit eternal life?
Speaker 1 (03:03):
He asked, allowing the crowd behind him to prepare themselves.
Jesus stood to his feet and wiped his hands on
his robe. They were dirty from working with the people
all day. He looked at the crowd, then walked over
to a bucket of water nearby to wash his face well,
Jesus began with a sigh and a smile.
Speaker 2 (03:26):
What does it say in the law? You've read the law?
Speaker 1 (03:28):
Asshome, The young lawyer was jumpy to answer, ready to
begin this discussion with Jesus.
Speaker 2 (03:35):
You shall love the Lord, your God with all your heart, soul,
mind and strength. You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
Speaker 1 (03:42):
The lawyer replied. Brilliant, Jesus exclaimed, with a clap of
his hands. Very good.
Speaker 2 (03:49):
Do these things, and you shall live into eternity.
Speaker 1 (03:52):
Jesus waved and turned back to another person in need
of healing. The lawyer stopped him, annoyed that he could
not keep jesus attention.
Speaker 2 (04:02):
Wait a second, Jesus, I'm not finished with my question.
Speaker 1 (04:06):
The young man was eager for a challenge, desperate for
an intellectual equal. Jesus glanced at the young man and
sat down. He gestured for him to continue his question.
Speaker 2 (04:19):
What are the boundaries of who we consider our neighbor?
Scripture is unclear who is worthy of love and who isn't.
Certainly that varies from person to person.
Speaker 1 (04:31):
The lawyer retorted it was a common question of the day,
a question that certainly needed an answer. People often wondered
who they needed to love and who they were allowed
to ignore. Jesus sighed and shook his head. He looked
(04:52):
up to the young lawyer and gestured for him to
sit beside him. He then motioned for the crowd to
come in close and listen. Jesus began a story for
the lawyer. It became apparent that this would not be
a conversation but a lesson.
Speaker 2 (05:10):
Let me tell you a story about a merchant traveling
from Jerusalem to Jericho.
Speaker 3 (05:17):
Who is our neighbor? Who is worthy of our respect
and our love? The people who agree with us, the
people who vote like us, The people who look like us,
act like us, talk like us. While the world teaches
tribalism Jesus offers a different perspective on who is worthy
of our love and respect. Welcome to another episode of
(05:38):
the Jesus Podcast. I'm Zach frompray dot Com. You're humble
host and guide through these epic stories of redemption and transformation.
We're beginning a new mini series today through the Parables
of Jesus. For the next twenty episodes, we will be
swept away and dramatic retellings of Jesus's most iconic parables.
These stories go into more detail than Jesus gave O.
(06:00):
We'll give these characters names and follow them as they
learn timeless lessons. Through storytelling grounded in scripture, we hope
to gain a deeper appreciation for the truth of Christ's
parables and enrich our own faith for the mission ahead.
Today's story is part one of the Parable of the
Good Samaritan. Jesus gave us this story to answer the
(06:21):
profound question who is my neighbor. It's a simple question
at first glance, but it's packed with commentary on how
humans split and divide into tribes in different groups. Another
way of asking our question is this, who can I
trust and who deserves my kindness? I don't think I'm
going out on a limb by saying our culture seems
(06:41):
pretty divided at the moment. We live in a world
ripped apart by tribalism. The world wants to categorize all
of us into groups based on race, economic status, cultural background,
or political party. Even the Church tends to be divided
by culture and denomination. Categorizing people helps us to figure
out who's safe and who isn't. But defining people by
(07:01):
their group is a slippery slope, isn't it. Let's dive
into the story of the Good Samaritan, narrated by Jesus.
We'll meet a man named Ezra who wrestles with some
preconceived notions about a specific group of people. He's going
to be taken on a journey to answer the profound
question who is my neighbor?
Speaker 2 (07:21):
The streets of Jerusalem were alive and bustling with people
buying and selling. Ezra weaved through the busy marketplace looking
for a few final things before returning to Jericho. He
stopped at a vendor selling dried figs and dates. The
sweet smell of fig cakes wafted in from.
Speaker 1 (07:41):
Behind the cart.
Speaker 2 (07:42):
Shalem, how much for a sack of dates and three
fig kegs, Ezra asked the merchant. The portly man stroked
his beard for a moment, then smiled.
Speaker 4 (07:53):
Oh, for a fine young man like yourself, one and
a half denarius. I'll even throw in a fresh fig
plucked straight from the orchard this morning.
Speaker 2 (08:03):
You're very kind, Ezra replied, as he retrieved the coins
from his purse strap to his side. I'm traveling home
to Jericho to day. We don't have figs like these
here in Jerusalem.
Speaker 4 (08:15):
The road between Jerusalem and Jericho is dangerous. My friend,
be sure to travel by day and with a group.
I've had vendors lose hundreds of denaris worth of goods
to robbers and bandits.
Speaker 2 (08:28):
I wish there was an alternative route, but I have
no choice. Thank you for your kindness and the cakes.
Before Ezra left, a man approached the cart beside him.
He was tall, broad shouldered, and carried a large pack
strapped to his back. The colors of his tunic were distinct,
with the patterns revealing the tribe he was born from.
(08:49):
This man wasn't a Jew, nor was he a gentile. No,
he was something worse. Do you have any reason cakes
for sale. I will be traveling in the old is
always better with something the sweet. His accent was unmistakable.
This man was a Samaritan. Ezra immediately clutched his purse
(09:11):
and furrowed his brow in disgust. The vendors kind and
jolly demeanor shifted, his jaw clenched and his chest puffed out.
Speaker 4 (09:21):
I don't sell to Samaritan dogs. Go and muddy up
someone else's business.
Speaker 2 (09:27):
There was a long pause from the Samaritan. He stood there,
keeping Ezra in anxious suspense. What was he going to
do next? Would he flip over the cart? Would he
curse the vendor and steal his goods? Ezra thought of bolting,
but the Samaritan left with a sigh. The man watched
the Samaritan leave and shook his head.
Speaker 4 (09:46):
Worse than gentiles, those Samaritans. You better watch yourself on
the roads. The trail to Samaria cuts through the road
to Jericho. Be safe, my friend.
Speaker 2 (09:58):
The vendor gave Ezra the rest of his change and
an extra fig for the road. Ezra a bowed his
head and departed, watching for that Samaritan. Ezra gathered everything
he needed for his journey to Jericho. He passed the
city gates, walking down a small path switched back to
the base of the road. A large well was dug
(10:19):
there for travelers to stop and drink. Ezra waited a while,
hoping a group would arrive for him to travel with,
but nobody came. Eventually, the same samaritan from the marketplace
traveled down the trail with his donkey. Ezra gulped and
suddenly wished he had brought some sort of protection. The
man arrived at the well and drew some for himself
and the donkey. He made himself comfortable, unloading a few supplies.
(10:42):
He was going to be there for a while. Ezra's
eyes shifted from the samaritan to the road. I'd rather
take my chances with the road alone than be here
with this samaritan, he thought to himself. There's no telling
what this man is capable of. Ezra darted for the road.
A few paces in he saw another traveler strolling in
the same Ezra tightened the straps on his pack and
(11:03):
waved towards him. Sir, would I be able to accompany
you on the road, he asked, nervously, looking back at
the samaritan. The stranger gave him a pleasant and warm smile.
Oh of course, my boy, he said with a friendly voice.
He looked back at the Samaritan and whispered, there's no
telling who you're run into on the road. Best to
(11:24):
stay together. I'm grateful, Ezra replied, with a sigh of relief.
He looked back at the well. The Samaritan glanced over
at them, face stoic and unreadable. He gave a nervous
smile and followed his new friend on the road. I
am Ezra. You may call me Zebel, the stranger replied.
(11:44):
Is Jericho where you call home? Jerusalem is my home,
but I travel often to and fro from Jericho for
er business. A smile curled up the man's narrow face.
My business associates are ahead of me. I had to
stay behind to settle some impersonal matters. But with luck,
(12:05):
you'll catch up to them before the sunset. And they
travel slow. The more the merrier, Ezra said, glancing back
at the well. The Samaritan was still resting there. Ezra
hoped he wouldn't see him again. The two traveled for
a few hours, exchanging small talk and discussing trivial matters.
Speaker 1 (12:22):
Like the weather.
Speaker 2 (12:23):
The sun was suspended firmly in the middle of the sky,
offering no mercy against Ezra's neck. The road was untouched
by the Romans, meaning it was unkept and littered with holes.
The unsteady ground strained his knees and back, and the
sun's relentless rays made the trek even more draining. The
(12:43):
two men arrived at a decline with the road narrowed
between two drop offs. On the one side of the
road was a jagged hill, on the other a dried
creek bed of rocks and withered moss. Zevil gestured to
a small path breaking off beside the mountain. Ah, here
it is, This is how will catch up to my
friends before dusk. Zevil pivoted and began walking down the path.
(13:07):
Isra paused and scanned his surroundings. He wasn't sure veering
off the path was a good idea Zevel looked back
and smiled, Come come, This is the shortcut I always
use when I'm not with a large group. It cuts
right through the canyon and meets back out at the
main road. Ezra looked behind him, wondering if the Samaritan
would catch up soon. Then he looked forward. The blistering
(13:29):
sun still covered the road, but Zevel's shortcut was shaded
by the canyon. Lead the way, Ezra said nervously. Zevel
smiled and continued. They scaled down the steep, jagged path
until they were entirely covered by shade. It was a
pleasant break for Ezra. Once they were hidden in the shadows,
Zevil's pace quickened. Ezra tried to keep up, but lost
(13:52):
sight of Zevel around the corner. White up, Ezra called out.
He turned the corner, only to be punched in the
jar and fall to the dirt. He looked up. A
large man stood over him with a rope tied around
his fist. Another man, shorter but wider, approached with a
heavy stick. Behind them was Zebl, wearing a menacing smile. Zevil,
(14:13):
what are you doing? Oh ah ah oh oh ah
ah oh, Israel, forgive me for not introducing you. These
are the business associates I was telling you about. Turns
out they weren't too far ahead of us after all.
Ezra leaped to his feet and tried to run, but
(14:33):
the shorter man struck him in the back with his stick.
He fell face first in the dirt. And winced in pain.
The taller man lifted Ezra by his tunic and punched
him in the ribs before throwing him against the stones.
They ripped his pack from him, removing his purse, and
began beating him senseless. Isra shouted for help, but nobody
heard his cries. He begged for mercy, but there was
(14:54):
no room in Zebhyl's corrupt heart. They beat Ezra in
such a way that he hoped to die. The pain
was unbearable, and each moment felt like a lifetime. He
felt his bones break, he felt his ribs crack, He
felt all the strength in his arms leave him as
he desperately pulled away. Finally, the men stopped, not out
of mercy, but because the job had been done. Zebel
(15:18):
took one of the fig cakes out of the pack
and took a bite. With his mouth full. He patted
Ezra on the head and said, thanks for the lunch,
by friend. I pray you'll find your way safely back
to Jericho. Watch out for the Samaritans out there. The
three men chuckled and escaped back into the shadows. Ezra
lae there, bones cracked and muscles bruised. His face was
(15:40):
smallen and bloody beyond recognition. Every breath brought a sharp
pain shooting through his lungs. With every ounce of strength
he had left, he dragged himself around the corner, desperately
trying to get back to the road. He made it
to the bottom of the hill, but it took everything
out of him. He propped himself up on one of
the rocks, straining to get back up, but his strength
(16:04):
failed and he slipped back. He hit his head on
the ground below. The sun's harsh rays was seated behind
the hills. The cool bite of night whistled in through
the canyons. Ezra lay there, slowly losing consciousness. He looked
up at the road, so close, yet so far. Finally,
as the sun descended over the hills, Ezra fell asleep.
(16:26):
I'm shure if he would awake the next morning.
Speaker 3 (16:33):
Did you notice Ezra's preconceived notions flipped upside down? As
it turns out, he couldn't trust someone just because they
looked like him or came from the same place as him.
The person Ezra thought he could trust ended up being
his enemy. That's the danger we find ourselves in when
we judge people based on their group, and not by
them as individuals. The character, the heart, the inward man.
(16:56):
Here's a timeless truth for us, spoken by the Lord
to Samuel when he was choosing a king. First, Samuel
sixteen seven says, but the Lord said to Samuel, do
not look at his appearance or on the height of
his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord
does not see as man sees. Man looks at the
outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. In
other words, looks can be deceiving on the outside. This
(17:18):
man that we named Zavool seemed harmless. He looked like Ezra,
came from the same place as Ezra, and spoke like him.
But Zavool was a wolf in sheep's clothing. The culture
we come from, the family we are raised in, or
the nationality we claim, doesn't define us as a whole.
It doesn't define us as much as the substance of
our hearts. Christ came to unify people from different backgrounds, statuses,
(17:41):
and cultures. The early Church, led by Paul and the
other Apostles, was the first movement where slaves and masters
sat together as equals, Jews and gentiles worked and worshiped
side by side. Former priests and prostitutes prayed together. Regal
Greeks and sloppy barbarians exchanged conversations about life, perse and heaven.
I want to share this beautiful passage from Aphesians two
(18:04):
with you, and I think it beautifully illustrates this point.
Aphesians two fourteen through twenty two says this, for Jesus
is our peace, who has made the two groups one,
and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility,
by setting aside in his flesh the law, with its
commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself
(18:24):
one new humanity of the two, thus making peace and
in one body, to reconcile both them to God and
the cross by which he put to death their hostility.
He came and preached peace to you who were far away,
in peace to those who were near, For through him
we both have access to the Father by one spirit. Consequently,
(18:44):
you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens
with God's people, and are also members of his household
built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with
Jesus Christ himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the
whole building is joined together and rises to become a
holy temple. In the Lord and in Him. You two
are being built together to become a dwelling in which
(19:06):
God lives by his spirit. Amen. Jesus came to break
down two different types of walls. The first wall was
between us and God. He made away by his sacrifice
on the Cross for us to be unified with God.
The Bible says that we were once alienated and hostile
from God, but we've been brought near and we've been
called children of God now. But the second wall of
(19:28):
barrier that God came to break down is the walls
between people groups. Through Salvation and Christ, we get to
have access in peace with God where it didn't exist.
We're no longer enemies with Him but beloved children. And
now all of those who call themselves children of God
get to enjoy unity and an unbreakable bond. Here at
prey dot com, we are blown away that we have
(19:49):
listeners from the United States, the Philippines, Mexico, Uganda, Japan,
and Germany. Each and every one of you are bonded
by something that transcends borders, culture, creed where unified in Christ.
Paul said that there is neither June nor Greek slave,
nor free male nor female. The labels that previously divided
us don't matter anymore. All that matters now is how
(20:11):
your hearts have been transformed by Christ and how we
are all collectively upwardly reaching towards him. In our next episode,
Ezra is going to learn that hard but beautiful lesson
the people he expects to help him won't help at all,
but the person he lea suspects to give him aid
will come to his rescue. Join us tomorrow for part
two of The Good Samaritan. If you've been enjoying this podcast,
(20:34):
be sure to leave us a review and download the
Prey dot com app for more epic devotionals, sermons, and
stories to give you wisdom and enricher faith forever
Host
Zak Shellabarger
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Special Summer Offer: Exclusively on Apple Podcasts, try our Dateline Premium subscription completely free for one month! With Dateline Premium, you get every episode ad-free plus exclusive bonus content.
The Breakfast Club
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.