Luke 10:37 (KJV)

What does Luke 10:37 mean?

Luke 10:37 records Jesus telling a man to act with mercy toward others, just as the merciful person in the story did. This is the conclusion of the parable of the Good Samaritan, where Jesus instructs the listener to follow the example of showing compassion.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to a lawyer who had asked him, “Who is my neighbor?” After telling the parable, Jesus asks which character acted as a neighbor, and the lawyer answers, “He that shewed mercy on him.” Jesus then commands, “Go, and do thou likewise,” making it clear that mercy and compassion are the standard for neighborly love.

The Greek behind Luke 10:37

• ἔλεος (eleos, “mercy”): This word refers to compassion or kindness shown to someone in need. In this context, it highlights the active, practical help given to the wounded man, not just a feeling of pity.
• πορεύου (poreuou, “Go”): This is a direct command, urging the listener to take action, not just to agree in principle.
• ποίει (poiei, “do”): This verb means to do or to act, emphasizing that mercy is something to be practiced, not just admired.
• ὁμοίως (homoios, “likewise”): This word means “in the same way,” stressing that the listener should imitate the specific kind of mercy shown in the story.

Why Luke 10:37 matters

• Luke 10:37 clarifies that being a “neighbor” is defined by actions of mercy, not by social boundaries or identity.
• The verse shifts the focus from theoretical knowledge of the law to practical, lived compassion, challenging the listener to move beyond words to deeds.
• This conclusion ties the whole parable together, showing that Jesus’ teaching is not just about who qualifies as a neighbor, but about how anyone can become one through merciful action.