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Christian Service
which needed to be done. He relieved him as best he could, put him
upon his own beast, and carried him to an inn, and made provision for
his wants at his own expense.
This Samaritan, said Christ, was neighbor to him who fell among
thieves. The Levite and the priest represent a class in the church who
manifest an indifference to the very ones who need their sympathy
and help. This class, notwithstanding their position in the church, are
commandment breakers. The Samaritan represents a class who are
true helpers with Christ, and who are imitating His example in doing
good.
Those who have pity for the unfortunate, the blind, the lame, the
afflicted, the widows, the orphans, and the needy, Christ represents as
commandment keepers, who shall have eternal life.... Christ regards
all acts of mercy, benevolence, and thoughtful consideration for the
unfortunate, the blind, the lame, the sick, the widow, and the orphan, as
done to Himself; and these works are reserved in the heavenly records
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and will be rewarded. On the other hand, a record will be written in
the book against those who manifest the indifference of the priest and
the Levite to the unfortunate, and those who take any advantage of the
misfortunes of others, and increase their affliction in order to selfishly
advantage themselves. God will surely repay every act of injustice,
and every manifestation of careless indifference to and neglect of the
afflicted among us. Every one will finally be rewarded as his works
have been.—
Testimonies for the Church 3:511-513
.
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