Who is My Neighbor? | Be the Neighbor! | Pastor Jamie Kemp

Luke 10:25-37

"Be the Neighbor" challenges the traditional question of "Who is my neighbor?" posed by a religious expert to Jesus. Instead of giving a definition, Jesus flips the question by telling the story of the Good Samaritan, instructing us to be the neighbor. This isn't just about being a good person, but about putting our faith into action. Being a neighbor means meeting a need, and it requires three things: energy, time, and the power of the Holy Spirit.

• Energy: The Good Samaritan didn't just feel bad; he acted, going so far as to give up his donkey and walk so the injured man could ride. The idiom "go the extra mile" reminds us that serving others often requires emotional and mental effort when we're tired.
• Time: The Samaritan intentionally took a detour from his plans to care for the injured man. This highlights the importance of "redeeming the time," which means living in the present and making the most of every opportunity God gives us to serve others "right here... right now".
• More Than You've Got: The Samaritan went beyond what was expected, paying for the man's care and promising to return for any additional expenses. Living out our faith requires more than we have on our own, which is precisely the point. It's only with the power of the Holy Spirit working in us that we can express our faith outwardly and fulfill God's purposes. 

The big idea is: "Miracles happen when a need meets people who will do something".

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. Jesus calls us to “go and do the same” (Luke 10:37). What does that look like in your daily life on campus, at work, or with friends?
2. A “Second Mile Christian” is someone who goes beyond what’s expected.  In what areas of your life do you feel challenged to “go the extra mile” for someone?
3. How do you balance your own goals and plans with the unexpected needs of others?
4. The Samaritan gave “more than he had.”  This is only possible with the Holy Spirit’s help.  How have you seen the Holy Spirit give you what you needed to help someone else?
5. What need is God calling you to meet this week?