The Power of Influence: How to Be a Neighbor in Today’s World
Have you ever met someone who inspired you so deeply that you wanted to model your life after them? Maybe it was a teacher, a mentor, or even a friend who went out of their way to help you during a tough time. These individuals often leave a lasting impact on our lives, shaping our values and guiding our actions.
This brings us to a crucial question: How do we know there is something significant about the teachings of Jesus? Why do we choose to follow Him? And what does following mean practically for our lives? These questions are essential, especially in a world filled with skepticism and doubt.
Investigating the Teachings of Jesus
When exploring faith, many people start with the question, "Does God exist?" However, a more pertinent question might be, "Are the accounts of Jesus in the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—reliable?" If even one of these accounts is true, it demands our attention.
Luke, in particular, provides a unique perspective. He wasn't writing religious literature; he was documenting the remarkable events of his time. He wanted to share the life and teachings of Jesus, which he believed were worth recording. Luke's account is significant because it offers insights into Jesus' mission and the nature of God's kingdom.
The Kingdom of God: A New Perspective
Jesus' mission statement is clear: He came to proclaim the "good news of the kingdom of God." This kingdom is not exclusive; it is inclusive and relational. Jesus emphasized that every individual has inherent value and worth, deserving of dignity and respect.
In the first century, this was a radical idea. The prevailing belief was that the gods were indifferent to human suffering. Jesus turned this notion on its head by teaching that God cares deeply for every person. His followers were called to embody this love and compassion, breaking down barriers and reaching out to the marginalized.
The Parable of the Good Samaritan
To illustrate His point, Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan. In this story, a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho is attacked by robbers and left for dead. Two religious figures pass by without helping him, adhering to their cultural norms and beliefs. However, a Samaritan—someone considered an enemy by the Jews—stops to help the injured man.
This Samaritan goes above and beyond, bandaging the man's wounds and taking him to an inn for care. Jesus uses this story to redefine what it means to be a neighbor. The question isn't "Who is my neighbor?" but rather "How do I love my neighbor?"
Redefining Neighborly Love
The lawyer in the story wanted to know the minimum requirement for loving his neighbor. This is a question many of us grapple with today. We often seek to define our relationships based on proximity, shared beliefs, or cultural backgrounds. However, Jesus challenges us to expand our understanding of who our neighbors are.
In today's context, our neighbors include everyone—regardless of their beliefs, backgrounds, or lifestyles. This includes those we may disagree with politically, socially, or religiously. Jesus calls us to love them all, not as projects to be fixed but as individuals deserving of compassion and respect.
The Challenge of Loving Others
Loving our neighbors as ourselves is a high bar. It requires us to confront our prejudices and biases. It challenges us to step outside our comfort zones and engage with those who may be different from us.
In a world that often feels divided, the call to love is more important than ever. Jesus' message is not just about feeling good or believing the right things; it's about taking action. It's about seeing a need and meeting it, regardless of who the person is or what they believe.
Taking Action in Your Community
So, how can you participate in this kingdom of God here and now? It starts with being aware of the needs around you. When you see someone struggling, whether it's a neighbor in need or a stranger facing hardship, take the initiative to help.
Don't let excuses or societal norms hold you back. Instead, embody the spirit of the Good Samaritan. Be the person who sees a need and acts on it, regardless of the circumstances.
Conclusion: Be the Change
As we reflect on the teachings of Jesus, let’s remember that He has enough admirers. What He needs are people willing to go out and do likewise. If you want to see change in your community or even in your own family, start by loving those around you.
This is not just a call to action; it's an invitation to participate in something greater than ourselves. By loving our neighbors—especially those who are different from us—we can help create a world that reflects the values of the kingdom of God.
So, the next time you encounter someone in need, ask yourself: How can I be a neighbor? How can I show love and compassion in a way that truly reflects the heart of Jesus? The answer may just change your life—and the lives of those around you.
At Centerpoint, we are ready to walk alongside you as you explore the teachings of Jesus. Watch the complete Investigating Jesus series in our media archive if you’d like to dig deeper into understanding the historical figure of Jesus and why His message is so important. We also invite you to attend one of our services in Valrico, Florida, part of the greater Tampa Bay region. Here you’ll discover a inviting community that welcomes your questions, isn’t afraid of your doubt, and encourages you to be an active participant in our community—even if you don’t believe the same things we do.
Living outside the area? Watch our livestream every Sunday at 11am, or check out our YouTube channel, where you can find helpful and relevant content each and every week.