Luke 15:1-10
Q.1. What prompted Jesus to tell these parables about things that are lost? – (Lk.15:1-3)
The Scriptures speak about ‘sinners’ in different ways: (i) The book of Romans declares that all people are sinners and are subject to God’s wrath (c.f. Rom.3:23; 6:23); (ii) However, all sinners who place their trust in Jesus Christ are declared righteous and are set free from God’s condemnation (c.f. Rom.8:1; 1 Tim.1:8-11); (iii) In New Testament times, a person who did not submit to Jewish laws was considered by the leaders to be a sinner. Despised ‘tax-collectors’ law breakers, and ‘sinners’ were flocking to Jesus and listening to His teaching. This upset the ‘guardians of the law’ – … the Pharisees and the scribes began to grumble, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them” (Lk.15:2). It was in this context that Jesus told the parables.
Q.2. What does the Parable of the Lost Sheep reveal about God’s heart for the lost? – (Lk.15:3-7)
We know that God cares for all people, regardless of nationality, and that – … the rain falls equally upon the just and the unjust (c.f. Mt.5:45). He cares about the ninety-nine who are safe in the field. However, there is a special place in His heart for a lost sheep. Our Shephard will leave no stone unturned, until His lost sheep is safe in the fold. This is our God. Jesus declared that – there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance (Lk.15:7). The extra time and attention given to the lost sheep in Christ’s story, underscore God’s love and compassion for any who are lost.
Q.3. What qualities did the woman in the story demonstrate, in her search for the one lost coin? – (Lk.15:8-10)
The one lost coin was a significant loss to the widow since she only possessed ten silver coins. She was a good example of the lengths to which a person will go, to find that one silver coin. Jesus asked, would she – … not light a lamp and sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? (Lk.15:8). She was diligent and purposeful. Upon finding the lost coin, she wanted to share her joy with her friends (Lk.15:9). Jesus stated – In the same way I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents (Lk.15:10).
Q.4. How can a lost sinner be found? Why does the saved sinner bring such joy in Heaven? What is the lesson for us? – (Lk.15:7 & 10)
In both stories, Jesus highlighted that a sinner must repent (Lk.15:7 & 10). Just like the shepherd, or any person who has lost something valuable, the Lord seeks the lost. It brings great joy in Heaven when each person enters the family of God. This should spur us on to engage in Christ’s mission and to keep building bridges to the lost.