Read the whole conversation before examining a single verse. In Luke 10, a legal expert asks Jesus about eternal life, and later asks who counts as his neighbor. Jesus answers with a story and a question of his own.

Notice the people, repeated words, questions, contrasts, and sequence of events. The priest and Levite pass by; the Samaritan comes near and acts with compassion. Observation begins with what the passage actually says.

Write three observations before drawing a conclusion. Distinguish what the text states from what you assume about it.

Reflect

Which detail in the conversation changes how you understand the story?

Pray

Lord, give me patience to hear your Word carefully before I speak.

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