As Christians, we often get so caught up in protecting ourselves from the depravity of the world, that we forget to be the hope of the world. We keep the rules, work hard and do what is right, but we can miss the heart of the Father to take the gospel to a culture filled with rebellious prodigals. And just like them, we need God’s grace. Because if we underestimate the power of the gospel to change others’ lives, we have underestimated the need for the gospel in our own lives. ~ Pastor Dave
Open: Have you ever observed someone receiving something that you know they didn’t deserve? Share your story. How did you feel in this experience?
Read: Luke 15
Discuss:
1. In Luke 15, Jesus shares a set of three parables. What is the context of these three parables (Luke 15:1-2)? Why did the Pharisees grumble? How does an ungodly world make you “grumble”?
2. Describe the three parables. What similarities do you see in each of the stories? In what ways do you notice the desperation of the shepherd and woman to search for their lost sheep and coins respectively? The parable of the lost son goes one step further. What does the son ask for and how does this demonstrate his feelings toward his father? In what ways are we like the lost sheep, coin and son? How is God like the Father? How has God shown you grace in the mess of your life?
3. Jesus shifts the story of the lost son to the “older brother.” Describe what he was doing. What do you make of his work ethic and faithfulness to the father? One moment changes everything. Describe the emotions of this brother after hearing the news of his younger brother’s return. Was he wrong to feel that way? Why or why not?
4. Why was the older brother jealous of his younger brother? In what ways do we feel jealous of God’s work in ungodly people? Have you ever been suspicious over the genuineness of another person? Share your story. In what ways do we sometimes get frustrated with God’s work in an ungodly world? What is more dangerous, the lust of the younger brother or the resentment of the older brother?
5. Read Luke 15:31-32. How does the father respond tenderly to the older son? How does the father restate his abiding presence and abiding provision for the older son? How does trust overwhelm jealousy? How does gratitude overwhelm resentment and frustration? It’s easy to look at the world and be frustrated, but what is God inviting you to celebrate with Him right now?
Pray: Pray that you would see and appreciate the work of God in an ungodly world. Ask God to continually remind you of His abiding presence and abiding provision in your life. Take a moment during prayer to celebrate something that God has done recently.
Memorize/Meditate: Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. Luke 15:7
