“Parables of the lost”
Luke 15:1-24
The background concerning the parables: “the Pharisees..murmured..this man receives sinners and eats with them.”
Christ told three parables to demonstrate God’s concern for the lost.
The sheep was lost because of its nature to go astray.
Isaiah 53:6 “All we like sheep have gone astray..” (ps.58:3)
Ephesians 2:1-3 “..were by nature children of wrath..”
The shepherd’s concern for the lost sheep, in searching for him and carrying him on his shoulders, rejoicing, illustrates Christ’s concern for sinners and His willingness to “save unto the uttermost all who come unto God by Him”.
The coin was lost because it had fallen and was covered by “circumstances”.
The woman’s diligence in searching for the coin illustrates Christ’s concern for those who, because of their circumstances seem lost and without hope.
The son was lost because he wanted to be lost.
The father’s concern (15:20) and compassion for his rebellious son illustrates Christ’s concern and willingness to receive those who choose to rebel against Him.
The joy of the shepherd in finding his lost sheep, the woman who found her lost coin, and the father who found his lost son, illustrates the joy in heaven when a lost sinner repents. Pharisaism said, “There is joy before God when those who provoke Him perish from the world.”
What is our attitude toward those who have wandered, those who have fallen and those who are rebellious?