Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan to teach that a neighbor is anyone who shows mercy and compassion, regardless of background or nationality (Luke 10:30-37).
"Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man?" (Luke 10:36)
"The one who had mercy on him." (Luke 10:37)
"Go and do likewise." (Luke 10:37)
Jesus told a story about a man who was traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho when he was attacked by robbers, beaten, and left half dead on the road. A priest came along and saw the man but passed by on the other side. Later a Levite also saw the man but passed by without helping him.
Finally, a Samaritan came along. Samaritans and Jews did not usually associate with each other, but the Samaritan felt compassion for the injured man. He bandaged his wounds, placed him on his donkey, took him to an inn, and paid for his care.
Jesus then asked which person was the neighbor to the injured man. The answer was the one who showed mercy. Jesus told the listeners to go and do likewise.
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There are many dozens of bible narratives that have become deeply engrained in western culture. Most are best understood when the culture and customs that surround them are known.
Also, the study of history and archeology often provide us with a foundation for a more complete picture of people and events found within bible narratives.
Evidence continues to be discovered in architectural inscriptions, artwork and other artifacts that encourage us to believe in the historicity of the bible.
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