This article analyzes the parable of the Good Samaritan in the light of recent research on helping behavior. Unlike much research that attempts to explain why people might behave as the characters in the parable did, this article looks at why Jesus might have constructed his parable in the way he did, examining both theological and psychological reasons. Research is cited not to explain human behavior, but to explain this alternate perspective of the parable. Specific points discussed are (a) the fact that the non-helpers were a priest and a Levite; (b) the fact that they “passed by on the other side”; (c) Jesus’ response to the question, “Who is my neighbor?” and (d) the implications of the exhortation, “Go and do likewise.”
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