Definition: Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Luke 10:36. It’s a really important and slightly mysterious passage about compassion and forgiveness. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Situation: Jesus is talking about a man who has fallen into a trap – he's been robbed or hurt by thieves. What are the three options? The verse presents three possible responses to this situation: Option 1: A neighbor: Someone who helps someone in need, offers comfort and support. Option 2: A friend: Someone who is close to the person in trouble. Option 3: A stranger: Someone who doesn't know you or isn’t connected to your situation. The Key Idea - "Thinkest thou?" This is the crucial part. The question “Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves?” is a bit tricky. It's not asking which option is correct; it’s asking if anyone actually thinks they are a neighbor to someone in need. What does it mean? Jesus is saying that anyone could be the "neighbor" – even someone who doesn’t know or care about the person who has fallen into trouble. It highlights the importance of kindness and compassion, regardless of our relationship to the person in need. The Message - Love & Compassion: The verse essentially emphasizes that God loves us all, and we should treat others with love and empathy just as He would treat someone in a similar situation. It's about recognizing the humanity in everyone, even those who are struggling. In short: Jesus is asking if anyone actually thinks they are a neighbor to someone in trouble. --- Would you like me to explain any of this further? For example, I could delve into: The context of the verse within the larger story of Jesus’ teachings. The meaning of "neighbor" – what does it really mean to be a neighbor?