Sermon 118

📖 Sermon 118 – The Lost Sheep

Date: [no date given]
Text: Luke 15:1–7

Introduction

Publicans and sinners draw near to Jesus, while the Pharisees murmur. Christ responds with a parable revealing the heart of God: He seeks the lost, carries them home, and rejoices over their salvation. This is the Gospel in miniature.

I. The Lost Condition of the Sinner

A. Like a sheep that wanders
Helpless, straying, and exposed to danger.

B. Lost through folly, not force
Sin deceives, blinds, and leads away from God.

C. Unable to return alone
The sinner needs a Shepherd to rescue him.

II. The Seeking Shepherd

A. He leaves the ninety and nine
A picture of Christ’s devoted mission.

B. He seeks “until He find it”
Persistent, patient grace.

C. He finds and lifts the sheep
He does the saving — the sheep contributes only its need.

III. The Joy of Salvation

A. He lays it on His shoulders
A symbol of tender, triumphant care.

B. He calls His friends to rejoice
Heaven celebrates every returning sinner.

C. “Joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth”
God delights in mercy.

Conclusion

The parable reveals Christ’s love for the lost, His pursuit, His saving power, and His joy. Let us praise the Shepherd who sought us, and join heaven’s joy when another sinner returns home.