Luke 10:34
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 10:34
34 And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.
Chapter Context
Luke 10 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of redemption, love, faith. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-42: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 10:34
34 And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.
Analysis
The Samaritan's actions demonstrate costly love: 'And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him' (καὶ προσελθὼν κατέδησεν τὰ τραύματα αὐτοῦ ἐπιχέων ἔλαιον καὶ οἶνον, ἐπιβιβάσας δὲ αὐτὸν ἐπὰ τὸ ἴδιον κτῆνος ἤγαγεν αὐτὸν εἰς πανδοχεῖον καὶ ἐπεμελήθη αὐτοῦ). Each action involves personal sacrifice: oil and wine for wounds (expensive commodities), his own animal (walking while the victim rides), time and effort at the inn. The verb 'epimeleomai' (ἐπεμελήθη, took care) indicates careful, ongoing attention. This models gospel ministry—meeting physical needs, personal involvement, costly sacrifice.
Historical Context
First-century medical practice used oil (soothing) and wine (antiseptic due to alcohol content) for wound treatment. Inns (πανδοχεῖον, pandocheion, literally 'all-receiving place') along major roads provided lodging for travelers, though they had unsavory reputations. The Samaritan's willingness to personally escort the victim and pay expenses (v.35) demonstrates extraordinary generosity in a culture where such kindness to strangers (especially ethnic enemies) was virtually unknown. The two denarii he paid (v.35) represented two days' wages—significant expense.
Reflection
- How does the Samaritan's costly, personal involvement challenge superficial or distant forms of charity?
- In what ways does this parable illustrate gospel truths about Christ's saving work and Christian responsibility?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Luke 2:7, Genesis 42:27, Exodus 4:24, Psalms 147:3, Mark 14:8, Romans 12:20