A Daily Purpose

Bible Study & Devotional Day 102

Written By Torrie Slaughter

Guiding Scripture:Luke 15:6 And when he returns home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, because I have found my sheep that was lost!’

🔴Found in Christ

What is a parable? According to Google it is a simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson, as told by Jesus in the Gospels.

Scripture Says: 

Jesus told the disciples that the mysteries of the kingdom of God are unlocked for them to understand. However, those who were offended or repelled by His Words would not comprehend. (Luke 8:10)

Today’s Reading:

In Luke chapter 15 he presents three different parables all about the lost being found: the Parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:3-7), the Parable of the Lost Coin (Luke 15:8-10), and the Parable of the Lost or Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32).
The sheep, perhaps led astray, was separated from the rest. The owner couldn’t remember where they placed the coin, and the son chose to be independent and lost his way.

We learn more in Matthew 25:32 which tells us that the Lord will separate the sheep from the goats as a shepherd does. Why? Sheep are more comfortable in a flock grazing on grass; they run if spooked or approached by ‘strangers’. Goats, however, are independent and often wander off to graze on anything they can.

The Conflict:

Jesus is a stark contrast to the (spiritually lost) Pharisees and other religious leaders because of His actions. He receives sinners, He invites them to listen to His words, He teaches them and rejoices when their lights shine with understanding. Jesus often offends the religious elite because their concern is the appearance of holiness.

Luke 12:47 The servant who knows the master’s will and does not get ready or does not do what the master wants will be beaten with many blows.

Ignorance Isn’t Bliss:

Our choices matter now! We can make decisions about how we press forward within the kingdom of God. When the Lord returns, only His opinion will matter. Unless we judge ourselves daily while in the situations, pointing out our sins and repenting, are we excluded from His harsh judgment. (1 Corinthians 11:31-32) However, this isn’t just lip service but a move into action. If the Divine Holy Spirit is urging you to return to God, seek Him through prayer. He will come near to those who draw near to Him. (Hebrews 7:25)

This devotional was written by Torrie Slaughter the founder of Our Given Purpose® for A Daily Purpose Bible Study & Devotional.