Luke 15 Commentary
Exclusivity. Hypocrisy. Greedy. The Pharisees and scribes would not be far from these words. In this gospel, they are the main antagonist. The storyline is not complete without them.
Not too long ago, yesterday, in fact, they invited Jesus to their banquet. So Jesus can have a meal with them and not with the tax collectors and sinners!
Consequently, we have three parables explaining the generosity of the LORD, God Almighty. They all have the same conclusion: great joy and celebration when a sinner repents. Verse 7, 10, and 32. The details before this conclusion are interesting.
First, the parable of the lost sheep. Sheep and not goats. Could it be that the scripture wants us to think about the not-so-bad individuals – the god-fearing men and women who must find faith in Jesus Christ? The sheep must be found; it cannot find itself. If you are saved, you know the LORD found you!
Even good people need salvation. Even good people have lost their way. Salvation is for everyone
The parable of the lost coin can be complex. The coin could be an individual with a high premium on his or her head in the eyes of the LORD. They must be found at all costs. The LORD spares no expense until the treasure is found.
The coin could represent salvation or eternal life. It must be found at all costs, sell all you have, if possible. There is a hint that individuals are on a search mission – forever empty hearts until they are filled by the LORD. Salvation could be the coin that we are all searching for. What joy to find it! It is Heaven’s joy!
Third, the parable of the lost son. This missing item has brains. He makes a decision to go back.
How all these thoughts combine at the same time and remain true as individual statements remains a mystery. Yes, the LORD searched and found the hopelessly lost sinner, cleaned her and the rest is history – a bride happily married again!
Yes, the LORD waited for the son to come back to his senses. He welcomes him and restores his fortunes – a happy family once again. Happy? No. Not everyone. The elder son’s reaction is represented by the reaction of the Pharisees and the scribes.
How happy are we when one sinner repents?
These parables here, and yesterday communicate various thoughts. The Creator God is on the hunt for lost souls. Even when the father (Father) waited for the son, we know the Holy Spirit was at work convincing the son to consider his options.
One thing is clear; individuals are highly valued by God. The servants in the field do well to remember the specs of the mission: “Don’t kill the fugitive. Keep and bring alive.” Compel them, speak tenderly and convincingly about God’s love for them. It is better at the palace.
Do we speak about God’s goodness the way we praise a valued pizza? Let the field workers know their Master eagerly awaits His lost sons and daughters. There is a banquet waiting for the arrival. Won’t you love to be the one walking in proudly with the lost but found daughter? Imagine the Father’s happy face!
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