Explorations in Religious Identity (RE 300 WR)

Before:

            Jesus’ parables have existed for centuries. The constant retelling and sharing of the Lukan biblical parable, the Good Samaritan, invites its readers to interpret it using their own perspective, but one perspective appears to overshadow the rest. This parable has most likely circulated throughout many churches and is still spoken from many ministers’ mouths. Christian congregants are familiar with the story, or so some think. When listening or reading this narrative, Christians can face complexity. It causes Christians’ identities to fluctuate and creates perplexity towards themselves. Questions arise, such as: Which role do we or should we play in this story? Who are we? Who am I?  Is only one identity accepted? We begin to question how exactly the popular, long-lasting narrative should be construed. Although the conventional view teaches us to act as the Samaritan, alternate analyses should be considered because they enhance, and even help, Christians discover identity and new insight. 

After:

The influential phrase, “Go and do likewise,” softly rings in many Christians’ ears. This concise, yet powerful statement from the Lukan biblical parable, the Good Samaritan, is included in many sermons and homilies to usually encourage the congregants to act in a certain demeanor. Christian congregants are familiar with the story, at least superficially. The constant retelling and sharing of this text invites its listeners to interpret it using their own perspective, but one perspective has overshadowed the rest. The Samaritan is the righteous character and exhibits the behavior that Christians should emulate. A closer examination of this text reveals more possibilities and can elicit questions, such as: Which role do we or should we play in this story? Who are we? Who am I?  Is only one identity accepted? We begin to question how exactly the popular, long-lasting narrative should be construed. Although the conventional view teaches us to act as the Samaritan, alternate analyses should be considered because they enhance, and even help, Christians discover identity and new insight, in regards to a more welcoming world.