The Arkansas Traveler

ARE YOU A PRODIGAL?

Luke 15:11-32

INTRO: In this chapter we have three parables about lost things. The central message is that God wants the lost to be found. He is patient in seeking and waiting for the lost to come to Him.

NOTE THE SETTING

   Lost things – sheep, coin, son

   The lost sheep and lost coin were sought and found.

      Celebration said to be like celebration in heaven over one    repentant sinner.

   The shepherd and the woman are symbols of God's seeking.

THE SON WAS A LITTLE DIFFERENT

   He was given his freedom. He chose to leave.

   The father waits and watches for his return.

   The son is given time to "come to his senses" (vs. 17)

   He comes to his father in repentance

   The father welcomes him with open arms as a son

   So God welcomes the repentant sinner. Celebration!!!

THREE KINDS OF LOSTNESS

   The younger son wasted the father's money

      He suffered for it. Suffered famine and hunger

      He missed the blessings of home.

   The older son stayed at home and served the father.

      Possibly out of a sense of duty – rather than love

      He did not take the joy the father could give

      Therefore he was not willing to forgive the brother.

   A third type is implied

      The younger son did not consider himself worthy.

      He was willing to be a slave w/o privilege of son

      What if he had rejected forgiveness and son ship?

      That's like us when we do not think we deserve forgiveness             and live without blessings of God.

--- Are you like one of these three? Are you enjoying all the joys and privileges of being a child of God? If not, why not?

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Presented at Greenville Southern Baptist Church, May 10,2009,

Pastor Fred D. Kerr