Luke 15:1-10

REJOICING IN HEAVEN OVER ONE SINNER

Keywords 15:7

I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.

1. “This man welcomes sinners” (1-2)

Jesus’ grace attracted public sinners like flies to honey. He welcomed them,

ate with them, and even called them to be his disciples. They became new

people because of Jesus’ grace and truth. This made self-righteous people

uncomfortable. They thought Jesus was a bad influence and lawbreaker himself!

Shouldn’t he condemn sinners as they did? Isn’t that what God wanted?



2. “Rejoice with me” (3-10)

Jesus wanted to help self-righteous people understand the heart of God who

sent his Son to save sinners. So, he gave two parables of someone who lost

something important to them. When it was found after great effort, they wanted to

celebrate with everyone close to them. Likely the celebration cost more than the

value of what was lost! But it didn’t matter on account of their joy. This is the heart

of God towards sinners who repent: he wants all his people, even angels, to share

his great joy over a lost sinner who is now found.

 

Prayer Father, thank you for Jesus who came to save sinners like me. Help me

share your joy over every sinner who repents.

One Word Learning God’s heart