Luke 15:1-7
The tax collectors (publicans) and sinners drew near to Jesus. The publicans worked for the Roman government that had conquered Israel. They were considered traitors to both Israel and God. The sinners were immoral and unjust who did not keep the law.
The religious crowd grumbled against Jesus because He associated with terrible people. They felt like it was beneath the dignity of any respectable person to associate with such vile sinners. The pharisees and scribes murmured. I don’t believe Jesus actually heard them. He knew what they said and answered them directly. He asked what kind of Messiah he would be if he didn’t go after the lost.
Jesus asked who wouldn’t go out to find one sheep out of 100 if it was lost. However, the sheep needs to acknowledge that it’s lost.
Like the sheep, you must be lost before you can be found. Most people are unaware of their lostness. Some think they’re ok because of their religion. Many have the head knowledge but not the heart knowledge. They know what it takes to look like a Christian, but it takes a relationship… not religion.
Many feel that because they’re doing good deeds, it will earn them a place in heaven. Many think they’re ok because their life is going good at the moment.
Luke 12:16-19
You can’t receive any help until you realize you’re lost. The rich man thought he was all set. He wasn’t worried about time.
You must realize:
- You can’t rely on your good works
- Religion without a relationship isn’t going to save you
- Just because life is going good right now doesn’t mean anything