“Come to Your Senses” (Celebrating the Lost being Found) (Billy Russell, 04/05/20)

Who Will Listen to Jesus? (A Chapter Study of Lk.15)

                “Come to Your Senses” (Celebrating the Lost being Found)

                                       (Lk.15:6-7; 9-10; 22-24, 32)

 

All 3 of Jesus’ stories conclude with celebration (much like the grand entry into Jerusalem of Passion Week). Celebration happens when people humble themselves and turn/return to our loving, restoring, forgiving Father.

 

                               Jesus Pictures Our Waywardness

     Spiritual awareness- of the broken relationship sin causes.

          Jesus puts these famous words within the heart of the prodigal son:

          “when he came to his senses (himself)” (v.17, NIV/ESV).

 

     Spiritual humbling- my way doesn’t work, I’ll go another Way (Jn.14:6)

          “God cannot give what we will not admit we need.” (J.Denison)

           Willingness to admit our need leads to a decisive moment.-V.Gideon

 

     Spiritual & actual turning/returning- come to the Father on His terms.

          Confession/repenting- essence of a lost person being found:

                “I’ve sinned against heaven and against you” (vv.18, 21).

                 “... expect nothing ... receive everything.” (M.Card)

 

                    Jesus Pictures God as a Loving Father who...

Anticipates Reunion (v.20)- “But while he was still a long way off his

                     father saw him and was filled with compassion for him...”

 

Runs (v.20)- “he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed

                      him.” (The son confesses and repents, v.21.) Father receives!

 

Restores (vv.20-23)- “Quick bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a

                      ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Let’s have a feast

                      and celebrate.” Father delights and calls for celebration!

 

Rejoices (vv.24, 32)- “For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he

                      was lost and is found. So they began to celebrate.”

Loves extravagantly- forgives/merciful! Oh, what a Father & Savior!

     The Father’s love calls for great rejoicing when people come to Him.

     This great love will cost Jesus His life on Good Friday.