Seeking a Lost Sheep

Salem Bible Study
Teachings on Community
Luke 15:1-7 (the Message)

 ^1-3 By this time a lot of men and women of doubtful reputation were hanging around Jesus, listening intently. The Pharisees and religion scholars were not pleased, not at all pleased. They growled, "He takes in sinners and eats meals with them, treating them like old friends." Their grumbling triggered this story.
 ^4-7"Suppose one of you had a hundred sheep and lost one. Wouldn't you leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the lost one until you found it? When found, you can be sure you would put it across your shoulders, rejoicing, and when you got home call in your friends and neighbors, saying, 'Celebrate with me! I've found my lost sheep!' Count on it—there's more joy in heaven over one sinner's rescued life than over ninety-nine good people in no need of rescue.

For Reflection


Boy, does this sound familiar! Judgment is essential to survival.  The problem was not that the Jewish leaders judged, it was that they were openly judgmental.  Their action inhibited rather than invited others to enjoy the fruits of the Kingdom of God.

The fact that people of doubtful reputation were listening to Jesus, is a testament to the  power of His words.  It is also the model of Christian love that we all should work to duplicate in our own lives.  The Pharisees and religion scholars, as well schooled as they were in the word, seemed to be uneducated in the act.

Pray that you become a living invitation for others to follow God's plan as revealed in Jesus Christ.