Parable of the Money Lender

Forgiven Much, Loved Much

Bible Passage: Lk 7:36–50

Summary: In this passage, Jesus dines with a Pharisee and a sinful woman anoints His feet with perfume, demonstrating profound love and repentance. Jesus uses this moment to illustrate the difference between those who recognize their sinfulness and the grace of God, contrasting the heart of the forgiven sinner with the self-righteousness of the Pharisee.

Application: This passage helps Christians understand the depth of God's grace and encourages us to reflect on our own lives, recognizing that we all need forgiveness. It teaches us to embrace humility, become aware of our failings, and extend grace to others, drawing people toward Jesus through our love and compassion.

Teaching: This sermon will teach about the nature of forgiveness, love, and repentance in the life of a believer. It emphasizes that recognizing our own sin leads to deeper love and gratitude for God's mercy, encouraging us to love others in the same way we have been loved.

How this passage could point to Christ: Jesus, the Son of God, is the ultimate forgiver and our source of love; He embodies the perfect response to the sinner's need. The woman's act of love foreshadows the total forgiveness that Jesus offers to all humanity through His sacrifice, bridging the gap between our sinfulness and God's holiness.

Big Idea: The greater our understanding of our own depravity and the vastness of God's grace, the more profoundly we are able to love and serve Him and others with our whole hearts.

Recommended Study: Consider using Logos to delve deeper into the cultural context of first-century dinner practices, which will enhance your understanding of the significance of the woman's actions. Explore commentaries on Luke to uncover theological insights related to forgiveness and love, and consider historical perspectives on the Pharisees’ views of sin and righteousness.

1. Picture of Humility

Lk 7:36-38

Perhaps you could begin by focusing on the scene where Jesus is dining with the Pharisee and the sinful woman enters to anoint Jesus’ feet with perfume. Highlight how the woman's actions demonstrate humility and a profound awareness of her need for forgiveness. This sets the stage for discussing the lavish grace Jesus offers to those who recognize their sinfulness.

2. Parable of Grace

Lk 7:39-43

You could highlight Simon the Pharisee's reaction to the woman, noting his judgmental attitude and lack of understanding of grace. Jesus' parable of the moneylender illustrates the idea of forgiveness and highlights that those who realize the depth of their sinfulness are often the ones who appreciate God’s grace the most.

3. Power of Forgiveness

Lk 7:44-47

Maybe consider how Jesus turns to the woman and contrasts her actions with Simon’s inhospitality. This section underscores the theme that awareness of forgiveness propels genuine love and devotion. Jesus acknowledges the woman's sins and affirms her faith, emphasizing the transformational power of knowing one is forgiven.

4. Promise of Peace

Lk 7:48-50

Perhaps end by reflecting on Jesus’ declaration of forgiveness and the resulting peace bestowed upon the woman. This invites the audience to receive faith and grace, and to extend that same forgiveness and love to others. It highlights that faith in Christ brings holistic transformation and restoration to our lives.