Next up, is the Levite:
So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. Luke 10: 32
Now, Levites were officials but of lesser stature than the
priests. Nevertheless, they held an esteemed position. They were responsible
for policing the temple and both priests and Levites were descendents of Aaron,
the first High Priest. I think this point is being made here within our
salvation picture to warn about who is watching how we behave. It has been
speculated that the Levite probably saw the priest make the decision to cross
the road and ignore the beaten man. The
Be careful, however, that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak. 1Corinthians 8: 9
The Priest in this parable became a stumbling block for the Levite. We need to be careful that we do not model uncompassionate behavior as Christians. We must not allow religiosity to trump helping our neighbor. Our responsibility must be to the lost and showing them the love and compassion of a forgiving God. Titus teaches us:
In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us. Titus 2: 7-8
Finally however, someone takes Christ to this beaten man:
But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. 'Look after him,' he said, 'and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.' Luke 10: 33-35.
