Jesus Loves the Lost

Intro

Am I lost or never-lost? the two perspectives

The picture of God’s love!

The contrast of the Pharisees. They think they’re holy like God, but they’re really the opposite of him

Jesus Loves the Lost. Do you?

Sections:

Introduction to the parables

Luke 15:1–2 NLT

Tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus teach. This made the Pharisees and teachers of religious law complain that he was associating with such sinful people—even eating with them!

If you’ve been here in the last few weeks, I hope you’re noticing a pattern. These stories about Jesus interacting with “tax collectors and sinners” are not isolated incidents. It is the pattern of Jesus’ life to connect with, hang out with, and intentionally reach people who are far from God, looked down upon, and outcast from society.

Lost Sheep & Coin

Last week - God is a seeker.

Reveals his great love - Illustration (prized possession?)

Celebration - we’ll come back to this

God Persistently Loves the Lost

He never gives up. “until he/she finds it.”

TBD

Lost Sons

Two sons - note that.

Divides his wealth between his sons - note that.

Younger son lives wastefully. (Prodigal) - Illustration?

The details: from a long way off, filled with love, he runs, he hugs, and he kisses. The son starts his speech, but the father isn’t even listening. He’s already planning the party. He refuses to accept him back as a servant, he

God Graciously Loves the Lost

God Jubilantly Loves the Found

Application: Join the Party

Reflection Questions:

Have I experienced the love of God? (Either way)

Am I Persistent, Gracious, and Jubilant in how I love?

Illustrations

Dune - You’ll always be the only thing I ever needed you to be—my son.