Luke 10:25
And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Lawyers (νομικοί, nomikoi) were experts in Mosaic law and oral tradition, part of the scribal class. They interpreted Torah and taught in synagogues. This lawyer 'stood up to test' (ἐκπειράζων, trying to trap) Jesus, seeking to discredit Him publicly. His question about eternal life reflects first-century Jewish debate over salvation requirements—Pharisees emphasized law observance, while Jesus taught grace through faith. The parable's setting on the Jericho road (a notoriously dangerous 17-mile descent from Jerusalem) would resonate with hearers familiar with banditry in that region.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the lawyer's works-based question reveal the human tendency to seek salvation through performance?
- What does Jesus' response teach about the law's purpose in exposing sin rather than providing salvation?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The lawyer's question 'Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?' (διδάσκαλε, τί ποιήσας ζωὴν αἰώνιον κληρονομήσω;) reveals a works-based understanding of salvation. The participle 'poiēsas' (ποιήσας, having done) assumes earning eternal life through performance. Jesus redirects him to Scripture (v.26), then tells the Good Samaritan parable to expose self-righteousness and demonstrate that no one perfectly fulfills the law's demands. The question 'who is my neighbor?' (v.29) attempts to limit obligation and justify selective love, but Jesus' answer universalizes neighbor-love, making salvation by law-keeping impossible and pointing toward grace.