A neighbour is someone who lives nearby, often right next door or in the same building. But being a neighbour is not just about where someone lives; it’s about the relationships we build, the kindness we show, and the support we offer one another. Neighbours can become like family, providing companionship, help in times of need, and a sense of community. In this edition, BETTY AMUKPO explores who our neighbours are, what makes them special, and why being a good neighbour matters. Some teens put forward their views. Excerpts:
‘Anyone in need’
According to the Bible, a neighbour is anyone in need, regardless of their background or relationship with us, living in our immediate environment. Jesus told a parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), regarding how we should relate with our neighbours. In this story, a Samaritan helped a stranger who had been beaten and left by the side of the road by robbers, showing what a neighbour is: The Samaritan saw a person in distress and responded with compassion. The man who was helped was a stranger, and the Samaritan didn’t consider their differences. The Samaritan showed love, care, and practical help. Being a good neighbour means: Loving others as ourselves, treating others with kindness, showing mercy and compassion. Following this example, we can build stronger, more loving communities and reflect God’s love to those around us.
• Awaki Barnabas
‘That person I may not necessarily share the same faith or tribe with’
My neighbour is that person with whom I may not necessarily share the same faith. He or She is that person with whom I may not necessarily share the same tribe, race, ideology, or opinions. As shown by the Good Samaritan, My love and care shouldn’t be limited to a few persons, because when I show love to people, I am as well showing love to God. (Luke 10:37 and 1John 4:20). We are all God’s children and so we should see ourselves as brothers and sisters in Christ, and we shouldn’t turn away from the sufferings of those around us. My neighbour is thus anyone in my proximity with whom I can share God’s love. We are called not only to love those who are similar to us or with whom we are comfortable, but all whom God places in our path.
• Patricia Oche
‘The person around me’
A genuine neighbour is anyone who is in need, regardless of distance, background, or differences—similar to the lesson taught by Jesus in the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25- 37). I aim to express kindness, compassion, and mercy to those around me, emulating Christ’s example. When I love others as I love myself (Mark 12:31), I embody the heart of God. This love transcends boundaries and surpasses social or cultural barriers. By living in this manner, I exemplify the transformative nature of God’s love through practical actions in everyday life.
• Arnold Akalezi
‘Anyone who requires assistance, irrespective of ethnicity or religion’
‘My neighbour is anyone in need including stranger or enemy’ My neighbour is anyone in need—family, friend, stranger, or even enemy. Jesus taught, “Love your neighbour as yourself” (Mark 12:31). He said, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these… you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). Like the Good Samaritan, “Go and do likewise” (Luke 10:37).
• Ogoke Chimamanda
A neighbour is not merely someone residing close to us;
It includes anyone who requires assistance, irrespective of their ethnicity, religion, or history. Jesus powerfully demonstrated this in the Parable of the Good Samaritan, highlighting that genuine love and compassion go beyond limits. In the narrative, He finished with the instruction, “Go and do likewise” (Luke 10:37), prompting us to show mercy and kindness to everyone. This lesson inspires us to adopt a wider understanding of the community, reminding us that acts of kindness can connect us and promote unity among diverse individuals.
• Blossom Akalezi
‘Anyone in need’
Luke 10:29-37 states: “Love the lord your God with all your strength and with all your mind and love your neighbour as you love yourselves.” It also illustrates that a neighbour is anyone in need, regardless of their background and status.
• Laura Okorafor
‘Anyone I encounter’
In the Bible, “neighbour” generally refers to anyone in need or anyone you interact with, not just those who are physically close or part of your social circle. Jesus emphasises this in the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:29-37), where the Samaritan, an outsider, is shown to be the true neighbour to the injured traveler. In the context of the Ten Commandments, “Your Neighbour” generally refers to anyone you interact with, not just those geographically close or of the same background. Jesus clarified this in the parable of the Good Samaritan, extending the definition to include even those from different, even hostile backgrounds. Essentially, your neighbour is anyone you encounter and whose need you can meet.
• Ojimmadu Sandra
‘Being a neighbour is about positive action not identity’
Your neighbour, according to the Bible, is anyone around you regardless of race, religion, or background who needs your love, compassion, and help. In Luke 10:25–37, Jesus tells the Parable of the Good Samaritan to explain who a neighbour is. The Samaritan helps a wounded man left on the road, while others pass by. Jesus ends the narrative by saying, “Go and do likewise” (Luke 10:37), showing that being a neighbour is about action, not identity. In Matthew 22:39, Jesus says, “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” This command follows the greatest commandment to love God and emphasises that love for others is central to faith. Even enemies are included: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). In short, your neighbour is anyone you encounter, especially those in need, and true neighbourliness is shown through love and mercy.
• Eze Martha
‘Anyone to whom I display love, is considered to be my neighbour’
In the 10 commandments, anyone to whom I then display this love, is considered to be my neighbour. Luke 10:25-37…Jesus clarifies that a neighbour is anyone in need, regardless of their background or status. We should also show mercy and compassion to those in need even those who are traditionally seen as enemies. Matthew 22:39…thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
• Francis Umennadi
‘You shall not hold grudges against your own people’
According to Matthew 22:39, Jesus affirms that loving your neighbour as yourselves is the second greatest commandment alongside loving God with all your heart. Loving your neighbour is core principle as emphasised in Leviticus 19:18. You shall not hold grudges against your own people and you should love your neighbour as yourselves.
• Justin Okorafor
