ch. 10.1-23 Jesus sends out the '70'. It was a significant number for Jews: Moses' elders in the wilderness (Num. 11.16) and the Sanhedrin; also symbolic for 'nations'. The disciples' equipment was simple, nothing to clutter or side track. Jesus gave instructions and they worked in Trans-Jordan. More Gentiles were there so Jews were less particular about the Law but see Matt. 10.5. 'Son of Peace' is a Hebraism referring to someone dominated by peace (1) an important quality in Jesus' ministry and of his disciples. It contrasts in every way with Satan's kingdom. Their mission was hazardous, but they could expect hospitality (1 Cor. 9.7; 1 Tim. 5.18; 1 Cor. 10.27; Matt. 15.10-20) 'Woe' is not a call for vengeance but an expression of deep regret or pity. What did Jesus mean by it being more tolerable for Sodom than for Capernaum? These towns are now a heap of rubble. On their return the disciples and Jesus rejoiced in triumph over evil and Jesus spoke to His Father in exultation. He directed the disciples to what is really important (v.20). The disciples' victory contrasts with the Pharisees 'self exaltation'. We glimpse oneness with the Father showing His Messiahship and in some special way shared with the disciples; John enlarges in chapters 14-17

Verses 25-37 Parable of the Good Samaritan: Was the lawyer testing Jesus? He referred him to the Law (Deut. 6.5; Lev. 19.18). Jews were their only neighbours, all others were enemies. Did the man suspect that there was something other than the Law? Did Jesus tell of a real occurrence? It is a unique story and only Luke tells it. It describes the Greek word 'agape' which Paul reshaped to express Christ's love. The story reflects the quality of His life. The Jerusalem -Jericho road is described by Robinson and Winward (2) "The road from Jerusalem to Jericho is one of the most remarkable in the world, descending from 2,300 feet above sea level at Jerusalem to 1,300 feet below sea level at Jericho….this highway winds and bends like a serpent,…. Passing through desolate mountains and narrow rocky defiles,… many sudden turnings and hair-pin bends" - a robber's paradise! Those who kept the spirit of the law and obeyed the prophets (Hos. 6.6; Micah 6.8) would know what to do upon seeing the stricken man. Yet how many of us really keep those laws? That a Samaritan is the 'hero' is surprising (Matt. 10.5; Luke 9. 51-56). Jews hated them. Priests and Levites were the healers and carers in Jewish society. The Samaritan does much more than might be expected of anyone helping. Wine was an antiseptic and oil would soothe and heal. It's worth looking at the many characteristics of the Samaritan. This parable has been given a modern setting many times. Have we gone and done likewise or do we still pass by on the other side?

Verses 38-42 Bethany 2 miles east of Jerusalem Does this moving devotional study follow the 'Good Samaritan to guard against 'salvation by works'? Does Jesus disapprove of Martha's service or attitude? The 'one thing needed' is not a particular dish or course but that which Jesus needed just before His suffering and Mary understood that need as spiritual communion. Martha, anxious and agitated, was getting upset. Jesus' repetition of her name 'indicates affection and concern' and he loved both sisters.(3) Barclay says that Luke's description is vivid with an economy of words showing the clash of temperaments (3) One sister was a human dynamo the other quietly reflective and there was no cause for one to look down upon another for all types are needed in the smooth running of a Christian community.

(1) Geldenhuys Commentary on the Gospel of Luke (Marshall Morgan & Scott 1950)

(2) Godfrey Robinson & Stephen Winward 'In the Holy Land' (SU 1963) pp58,59

(3) William Barclay The Gospel of Luke (St.Andrews Press)