Three stories
One day when Jesus was walking with His disciples. He told them three stories.
People whose sins were public and branding were also listening to Jesus. Might his words give some hope to them?
The religious leaders criticized Jesus for being near being whose sins were so offensive to them.
Jesus wanted his disciples, these people, and the religious leaders to know how God felt and acted toward those who wanted to change their lives and leave their bad choices behind.
He told them about a sheep, a coin, and a son.
The final journey to the cross
They were walking toward Jerusalem. It was final walk toward the crucifixion.
The religious leaders had made their decision. His Messianic signs were miracles done in league with Satan.
The crowds had faded. He expected too much from them.
He was focused on preparing the disciples for his departure and their role in his new church.
If you have failed God or you think he has failed you
The three stories focus on how God who seeks those who are separated from him.
Even though 99 were safe, the shepherd seeks the one who got lost. The woman wanted the lost coin in addition to the ones that were where they should be.
The father isn’t just waiting. He is looking and looking intently enough that he saw his lost son when he was still far away. (Luke 15:1-32)
Repentance is always an option
About 700 years before Jesus was born, the prophet Isaiah told his listeners that no matter how bad things were they could always return to God. The invitation was always there. (Isaiah 1:18-20)
Jesus spoke in that tradition. God was always looking, not waiting.
The father was looking not waiting
No excuses were needed for acceptance
Jesus came to seek and to save
The older brother was disappointed that the rebellious one who left the father was getting off too easily.
The Father would have none of this.
There were consequences. The inheritance belonged to the brother who stayed but the brother who returned was celebrated.
The returning brother would not remain a slave. He was a brother.
Questions for consideration:
Have you ever hidden from God? Why did you believe that God would not accept you?
Have you ever been the older brother worrying that someone was getting off too easy?
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