This post is part of NaBloPoMo for November 2012. As much as I can, I will be attempting to post new content here on my blog, whether is is a quote, an image, or a full blown blog post.
Read
I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. – Luke 15:7
Explore (Summary)
Chapter 15 focuses on what happens in heaven when a sinner acknowledges their sins and then turn to God asking for forgiveness through Jesus
- the pharisees wonder & talk amongst themselves as Jesus is teaching to the tax collectors and other sinners who have gather around Jesus
- Jesus tells three parables about people who have lost something of theirs, they go out searching for it and then when they find it they rejoice and celebrate
- the first parable is the lost sheep, when the shepherd leaves his flock behind to go and find a single sheep, and then when he has found it rejoices with his friends and neighbours
- the second parable is the woman who loses a silver coin, and she takes any means necessary to find it, and when she has found it rejoices with her friends and neighbours
- the last parable is the lost son, who asks for his inheritance early, and chooses to squander his inheritnace, but then when his inheritance has all gone, he returns home pleading for forgiveness from his father, but his father celebrates the return of his son
Apply
God and the angels are rejoicing in heaven when people become Christians and put their faith in him. We can always be a Christian and God still loves us and celebrates, but he also celebrates when new people join those who are already Christians.
While God may be disappointed that people turn away from him, he will also celebrate their return just like the father of the lost son.
Prayer
Lord, we know that some people struggle with Christianity, but we thank you for rejoicing in heaven when we turn back to you. Thank you for also rejoicing when sinners choose to accept you into their lives. Amen.
