Luke 15:1-7
While there are many reasons most average Christians don’t live missionary lives, there’s really only one main reason: we’re not happy enough! Seriously. If we could for a moment keep the Story of the Gospel in front of our eyes, the ridiculously good news of all that Jesus is and has done for sinners like us, lost and dead and alone, we’d have a hard time containing the joy! In Luke 15 Jesus tells 3 stories to illustrate the heart of God for those who need rescue, the extravagant lengths to which God has gone to seek out and find the lost, and the joy that God has at finding his lost ones and bringing them home. And he urges us to join in the party of grace, marveling at the goodness of God in his rescuing pursuit and calling us to share his joy in everyday mission!
COMMUNITY DISCUSSION
1. Read Luke 15.1-7. Who is Jesus addressing with this parable? Why is that significant?
2. Take an honest assessment of yourself. Are you more like the rejoicing Shepherd who loves to go after lost sheep, or like the grumbling Pharisees who love to worry about whether or not everyone is following the rules?
3. Recount how Jesus rescued you, and take some time to marvel in his kindness to you. What was it about Jesus and all he has done that drew you to him? Who might you share that good news with this week?
November 15, 2020 - Steve Hart