The Parable of the Lost Sheep

Luke 15:1–7 NKJV

Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, “This Man receives sinners and eats with them.” So He spoke this parable to them, saying: “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.

Jesus and Sinners

He welcomed sinners.

He ate with sinners.

He came to reach sinners.

Jesus and the Religious

The rejected sinners.

They imagined that they were better than “sinners”.

They condemned Jesus for associating with sinners.

Jesus the Good Shepherd

Jesus cares for all of His sheep. (the 100)

Jesus cares for each one of His sheep.

He calls each one by name. (John 10:3)

Jesus will leave the 99 to search for the one that is lost.

Jesus rejoices when a lost sheep is found.

Jesus carries the lost sheep back to the fold.

Jesus encourages other to rejoice with Him when the lost sheep is found and returned.

The Joy of Heaven

Heaven rejoices when one sinner repents.

Luke 15:7 NKJV

I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.

Response to the Word

All are sinners in need of a Savior.

There is no one too bad that Jesus doesn’t love.

Jesus is actively seeking those who are lost.

Repent of your sins and call out to Him today.

Make heaven rejoice!