Chance

 

The Hidden Role of Chance in the Parable of the Good Samaritan

When we read the Parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37, we’re often drawn to its powerful message about loving our neighbor, no matter who they are. But there’s a subtle detail in this story that’s rarely discussed: the role of chance. Jesus weaves this element into the parable, and it’s a fascinating lens through which to see how divine opportunities intersect with human choices. Let’s dive into this overlooked aspect of the parable, focusing solely on New Testament insights, and explore what it means for us today—whether we’re rolling dice in a game or navigating life’s unexpected moments.

Chance Sets the Stage

In the parable, a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho is attacked by robbers, left half-dead by the roadside. A priest, then a Levite, “pass by” on the other side, avoiding the man. But then comes the Samaritan, who, as the Greek text puts it, kata sugkuria—translated as “happened to be going” or “came by”—encounters the injured man. This phrase, kata sugkuria, carries a sense of coincidence, a chance meeting. The Samaritan wasn’t out looking for someone to save; he just happened upon this moment.

Jesus doesn’t linger on this detail, but it’s significant. The New Testament often shows life’s unpredictability—like when Jesus calls fishermen to follow Him out of the blue (Matthew 4:18-22) or when a storm catches the disciples off guard (Mark 4:35-41). In the parable, chance is the spark that brings the Samaritan to the scene. It’s like landing a lucky roll in a game—unplanned, yet full of potential. But Jesus makes it clear that what happens next isn’t about luck; it’s about choice.

From Chance to Choice

The priest and Levite also “chance” upon the man, yet they walk away. Their encounter, just as random as the Samaritan’s, leads to inaction—perhaps out of fear, ritual purity concerns, or indifference. The Samaritan, though, seizes the moment. He sees the man, feels compassion, and acts: bandaging wounds, pouring oil and wine, and paying for his care at an inn. The chance encounter becomes a divine appointment because of his response.

This shift from chance to choice is at the heart of Jesus’ teaching. In the New Testament, we see this pattern elsewhere. Think of Philip meeting the Ethiopian eunuch “by chance” on a desert road (Acts 8:26-39). An angel prompts Philip to go, but it’s Philip’s choice to engage, explain the Scriptures, and baptize the man that fulfills the moment. Or consider Jesus’ encounter with the woman at the well (John 4:4-26)—a seemingly random stop at a well leads to a life-changing conversation because Jesus chooses to see her and speak truth.

In the parable, the Samaritan’s actions show that chance isn’t the story’s driver; faith and love are. Jesus ends by telling the lawyer, “Go and do likewise” (Luke 10:37), urging us to act with compassion when life’s random moments present themselves. It’s not about controlling the roll of the dice but responding with a heart aligned with God’s love.

Chance in Our Lives

So, what does this mean for us? Life is full of chance moments—bumping into a stranger who needs help, getting an unexpected opportunity, or even playing games where luck plays a part. The Parable of the Good Samaritan suggests that these aren’t just random; they’re invitations. Jesus doesn’t promise we’ll control outcomes (like when the disciples’ nets come up empty until He intervenes, John 21:3-6), but He calls us to respond faithfully to what comes our way.

When I play games like Monopoly GO! or buy a lottery ticket, I feel a thrill in the unpredictability—a good roll or a close number feels like a gift. The parable reminds me to thank Jesus for those moments, not because I manipulated the outcome, but because every chance is a chance to reflect His love. A great roll might let me share rewards with a friend; a bad one teaches me to stay content (Philippians 4:11-12). In life, a “chance” meeting with someone in need—maybe a coworker struggling or a neighbor down on their luck—is a call to be a Samaritan, to act with kindness instead of passing by.

Why Chance Matters

The beauty of the parable’s take on chance is that it frees us from obsessing over control. Jesus doesn’t tell the Samaritan to go hunt for injured travelers; he simply responds to what’s in front of him. In the New Testament, this trust in God’s timing shines through—like when Paul’s “chance” imprisonment leads to sharing the gospel with guards (Philippians 1:12-14). Chance, in Jesus’ hands, becomes a canvas for faith.

Nobody talks much about chance in the Good Samaritan story, but it’s there, quietly shaping the narrative. It reminds us that life’s randomness isn’t chaos; it’s an opportunity to “do likewise,” to love our neighbor in the moment we’re given. Next time you’re faced with an unexpected encounter or even a game’s lucky break, think of the Samaritan. Chance brought him to the roadside, but love wrote the story.

What’s a “chance” moment where you’ve seen God at work in your life? Share in the comments and let’s talk about how we can be Samaritans in our everyday rolls of the dice!