The Least the Lost and the Left Out

Who is Coming to Jesus?

Tax collectors - those who work for the Roman government and are morally suspect!

Sinners - those who are not acceptable in polite company.

Who is grumbling?

The Pharisees and the scribes - upstanding members of the community. They might not agree with one another on all aspects of the current situation or politics, but they are sure who shouldn’t be there! See Tax collectors and sinners!

What is the complaint?

He welcomes and eats with the unacceptable.

My question -

Why do they care?

His Response

The seeking love of God. (Prodigal will be the receiving love)

Parable of the Lost Sheep

No one with a modest herd of 100 sheep would leave 99 to find one. You still have the majority of your wealth and leaving could cost a lot more!

There is finding - he carries it home on his shoulders and there is rejoicing!

Shepherds were of little account in this time in Jewish history.

Commentary

There will be more joy in heaven over sone sinner who repents than over 99 righteous persons who need no repentance.

Parable of the Lost Coin

This a woman would do. Who has 10 coins, each with one day’s wages. Losing 10% of her wealth is important. Though the sheep is worth more, it is less of the total.

Again there is finding and rejoicing.

Commentary

There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.