Expository Thoughts On Luke - Luke 15:1-10
J.C. Ryle expounds on Luke 15:1-10 to reveal Christ's compassionate mission to seek and save sinners through the parables of the lost sheep and lost coin.
In this expository sermon on Luke 15:1-10, J.C. Ryle explores the profound compassion of Christ as revealed through the parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin. He highlights how Jesus' mission centers on receiving sinners and calling them to repentance. Ryle challenges believers to understand the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents and to embrace their role in God's redemptive work. This sermon offers timeless insights into Christ's heart for the lost and the nature of salvation.
Text
THE PARABLES OF THE LOST SHEEP, AND THE LOST COIN
The chapter which begins with these verses is well known to Bible readers if any is in the Scriptures. Few chapters perhaps have done more good to the souls of men. Let us take heed that it does good to us.
We should first observe in these verses, the striking testimony which was borne to our Lord by His enemies. We read that when "all the publicans and sinners drew near to hear Him, the Scribes and Pharisees murmured, saying, This man receives sinners, and eats with them."
These words were evidently spoken with surprise and scorn, and not with pleasure and admiration. These ignorant guides of the Jews could not understand a preacher of religion having anything to do with wicked people! Yet their words worked for good. The very saying which was meant for a reproach was adopted by the Lord Jesus as a true description of His office. It led to His speaking three of the most instructive parables which ever fell from His lips.
The testimony of the Scribes and Pharisees was strictly and literally true. The Lord Jesus is indeed one that "receives sinners." He receives them to pardon them, to sanctify them, and to make them fit for heaven. It is His special office to do so. For this end He came into the world. He came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. He came into the world to save sinners. What He was upon earth He is now at the right hand of God, and will be to all eternity. He is emphatically the sinner\
Sermon Outline
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I
- The setting: Jesus receiving sinners and the Pharisees' complaint
- The significance of the Pharisees' testimony about Jesus
- Jesus' mission to call sinners to repentance
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II
- The parable of the lost sheep: God's pursuit of the lost
- The joy in heaven over one sinner who repents
- The illustration of God's personal care for each lost soul
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III
- The parable of the lost coin: diligent searching for what is lost
- The value God places on every individual
- The call to rejoice with God in the recovery of the lost
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IV
- The application of these parables to believers today
- Encouragement to share in Christ’s mission of salvation
- The eternal nature of Christ’s office as Savior
Key Quotes
“The very saying which was meant for a reproach was adopted by the Lord Jesus as a true description of His office.” — J.C. Ryle
“He came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” — J.C. Ryle
“He is emphatically the sinner's friend, and the great seeker and savior of the lost.” — J.C. Ryle
Application Points
- Recognize Christ’s compassionate heart toward sinners and respond with repentance.
- Rejoice in the salvation of others as God rejoices in heaven.
- Engage actively in seeking and restoring those who are spiritually lost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Pharisees complain about Jesus?
They were surprised and scornful that Jesus associated with sinners, which they saw as improper for a religious teacher.
What is the main message of the parables in Luke 15:1-10?
They illustrate God's deep love and relentless pursuit of sinners to bring them to repentance and salvation.
How does Jesus' mission relate to sinners?
Jesus came specifically to call sinners to repentance and to save them, not the righteous.
What does the lost sheep represent?
It symbolizes a sinner who has gone astray and the personal care God takes to bring them back.
What practical lesson can believers learn from these parables?
Believers are encouraged to rejoice in repentance and participate in Christ’s mission to seek the lost.