Go and Do the Same
“...Things which eye has not seen”


By Jon W. Quinn

It is doubtful that, having so many examples of good will, compassion and mercy, that most of us appreciate how much we owe Jesus and His teachings for such attitudes. Of course, there is a lot of bad in the world as well, but we also see good.

One the one hand there are headlines about corruption and greed. There are victims of horrible crimes who call out for help as their pleas are ignored by those who “don't want to get involved.”

But then, on the other hand, we read of diligent efforts to relieve victims of natural disasters as people give of their time and money. Rather than having the goal of enriching themselves, many try to make the world a better place through unselfish service. Some “good Samaritans” are quite willing to “go the extra mile” to give a “cup of cold water” to one who is in need of it.

Did you notice the italicized phrases above? Look at them again: “good Samaritan” and “go the extra mile” and “give a cup of cold water”. They are all common expressions suggesting service and assisting those in need. Did you know that each one also originates in Jesus' teachings? The goodness and mercy in this world exist in a large measure because of Him. He tells us to “go and do the same.”

Of course, lots of evil has also been perpetrated on the world in the name of religion in general and sometimes under the flag of “Christianity” in particular. Crusades and inquisitions and witch trials-so many atrocities. So what gives? How could so much evil have been done in the name of the One who taught such noble ideals about how we ought to treat one another?

The answer: Sometimes we do not listen very well. Here is a challenge: Look over the teachings of Jesus Christ about how we are to treat our friends, our neighbors, strangers and even our enemies. Then ask yourself: How many atrocities have been committed by someone who at the time was following these teachings? True disciples of Jesus seek to become like the “good Samaritan”. You will find them praying for their enemies instead of cursing them. Yes, some evil in the world has tried to hide itself under the claim to be Christian, but the truth lies in the teachings of Jesus Himself. In authentic Christianity, behavior matches claim, and they both are consistent with the things Jesus taught. He made it quite clear that He was not interested at all in lip service. He once asked: “Why do you call Me 'Lord, Lord' and do not do the things I say?” (Luke 6:46).

We have no intention of defending actions that are contrary to the teachings of Christ. We look to His word as our guide, and we are happy to do so.

36 "Which of these three do you think proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell into the robbers' hands?"
37 And he said, "The one who showed mercy toward him." Then Jesus said to him, "Go and do the same."
(Luke 10:36-37)

From The Bradley Banner 2/21/2010
Published by the Bradley Church of Christ
1505 E. Broadway