The conclusion... Jesus rarely gave an illustration, example, or truth without bringing a challenge to those he was teaching or those who were questioning him. This puts us in a position where we must, when confronted with the situations of life, choose to obey or ignore His teaching. This lawyer wound up with a rather pointed illustration on the inaction of those claiming to be "true worshippers" of God.
Luke 10:36 - Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?
v.37 - And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.
The Samaritan, though unacceptable to the "religious folks", was closer to the heart of God than they were! He was embodying the truth of I John 3:18 -
"My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth."
There is a strong implication here that those who are unwilling to get "involved" are practicing a vain religion. (Or as the "old folks" used to say, "talk is cheap"!)
It's pretty clear that we ought to help where and when we can; and when
we are unable to affect the situations of those around us for good, at least we can empathize with them.
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