In this classic sermon by Billy Graham, he focuses on a passage from Luke's Gospel, specifically the 10th chapter. The sermon begins with Graham reading from verse 25, where a lawyer asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus responds by asking the lawyer what is written in the law and how he interprets it. The lawyer answers by saying that one must love the Lord with all their heart, soul, strength, and mind, and love their neighbor as themselves. Jesus commends the lawyer for his answer and tells him to do these things to live. However, the lawyer, wanting to justify himself, asks Jesus who his neighbor is. Jesus then tells the story of the Good Samaritan, where a man falls among thieves and is left half dead. A priest and a Levite pass by without helping, but a Samaritan stops, shows compassion, and takes care of the wounded man. Jesus asks the lawyer who he thinks was a neighbor to the man who fell among thieves, and the lawyer answers that it was the one who showed mercy. Jesus tells the lawyer to go and do likewise.
Billy Graham explains that Jesus gave this story in response to two questions posed by the lawyer. The first question was about inheriting eternal life, and Graham emphasizes that there is nothing one can do to inherit it. It is not something passed down from parents or grandparents. The second question was about who one's neighbor is. Graham explains that a neighbor is not just someone close to us, but in today's world, with modern communication and technology, everyone on this planet has become our neighbor. Graham emphasizes the importance of loving and praying for people from all races and nations.
Graham then delves into the different relationships involved in loving our neighbor. He discusses the race question, using the story of the Good Samaritan as an example of loving someone from a different ethnic background. He also talks about the rich and poor relationships, pointing out the inequity in the world and the responsibility to help those in need. Lastly, Graham addresses the relationship with the opposite sex, emphasizing the importance of enduring relationships rather than seeking instant gratification.
Moving on, the sermon shifts to discussing teachings from the Bible regarding lust, adultery, and the importance of using sex within the confines of marriage. Graham emphasizes that God is not against having a good time or enjoying sex, but rather wants to protect the sanctity of marriage. The negative consequences of committing immorality before marriage, such as guilt and psychological disturbances, are highlighted. The prevalence of venereal diseases and the emergence of herpes simplex II, which has no known cure, are also mentioned. Additionally, the importance of forgiveness and loving one's neighbor, including parents and children, is emphasized. The story of the Good Samaritan is referenced to illustrate the concept of helping and loving others.
The sermon then focuses on the individuality of each person before God, emphasizing that Jesus loves and cares for each individual. The story of a man who fell among thieves on the road to Jericho is used as an analogy for the sinful state of humanity. Graham explains that sin has left humanity spiritually dead, but through Christ, one can be made alive again. The presence of false messiahs and the need to be cautious of them is also mentioned.
The next section of the sermon explores the idea that all religions are either a perversion or a preview of Christianity, quoting C.S. Lewis. Graham references a warning from Jesus about false prophets and deceivers, emphasizing that religion itself does not save anyone, as it is man's attempt to reach God, whereas Christianity is God's attempt to reach man.
Graham shares a story about a priest who passes by a broken and crushed man, representing religion in all its forms. They mention that many religious leaders can be insincere and not truly know Christ. Graham emphasizes that salvation cannot be achieved through works or keeping the law, but rather through repentance and accepting Christ as one's Savior.
Next, Graham mentions a Levite who also passes by the wounded man, representing the belief that one can be saved by doing their best or keeping the commandments. They highlight that the Bible states that one can be sure of their salvation.
The importance of love and compassion is then discussed, with a story about a Samaritan who showed compassion to a wounded man, despite being from a different race and religion. Graham mentions that Jesus not only loves us but died on the cross for us. Christianity is described as good news, offering forgiveness, a new life, and a commitment from someone who will love and go with us.
The audience is then urged to make a decision and come forward in the meetings to symbolically repent of their sins and receive Christ. Repentance is explained as changing and being willing to change one's way of life. The audience is encouraged to have faith in Christ for forgiveness and salvation and to be willing to follow Him and be a good neighbor.
The sermon concludes by explaining that people are asked to come forward publicly because Jesus said that if someone is not willing to acknowledge Him publicly
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