In Luke 15:1-3, The
Pharisees and the teachers of the law were complaining about Jesus. They were complaining that Jesus, who is
perfect, sinless, and Holy is hanging out with people who were not worthy. Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”
They could not figure out why God would have
any interest in “bad” people. Jesus responds with three
stories:
Luke 15:3-7 The Parable of the Sheep
Why
would the shepherd leave his flock to look for one lost sheep?
Luke 15:8-10
The Parable of the Lost Coin
Why
would you turn your house upside down for a coin?
Luke 15:
11-24 The Parable of the Lost Son
Why
would you run to welcome your “lost” son?
God is saying “I hang out with them
because I am who I am. I am grace.” Grace. Worth is not earned. Salvation is
not earned. It is only received.
