As we continue considering how Luke presented the life and ministry of Jesus on earth we see how he often used incidents where Jesus highlighted his affirmation of individuals who were not Jews.
Notice in chapter 10 the parable of the good Samaritan how he contrasts the attitude and response of a priest, a Levite and a Samaritan toward a victim robbed and beaten lying in a ditch. Jesus asked, “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” Clearly the Samaritan did the right thing. Jesus encouraged following the example of a non-Jew. Then in chapter 17 Jesus healed ten lepers. Only one returned to thank Him, and he was a Samaritan. Remember, Jews abhorred Samaritans, but Jesus loved them.
Time and again Luke shows how Jesus reached out to those who were from the wrong side of the road, the wrong class, the poor, and even hated tax collectors. The point was that what Jesus came to offer – forgiveness, healing, deliverance, restoration and acceptance into the family of God – was received by faith in Him, not on the basis of pedigree, race or position.
This was finally highlighted in Luke 23, when one of the criminals crucified with Jesus asked Him for mercy, “Remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus responded, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.”
Luke made sure that anyone coming to Jesus by faith is accepted.
