The Prodigal Father—by Justin Renton
Sermon summary:
Father's Day sermon:
Prodigal=Using resources freely & extravagantly
- God is running through the fields calling your name
The shepherd has a responsibility to defend and look after the sheep who are defenceless. When shepherds go out to look for a sheep you have to come back with something (a hoof or something to prove you have looked for it).
God loves individuals. He sends someone to find you; he's protective; has a rejoicing love. - God is falling to his knees looking for you.
Luke 15:8–10 We are the lost coins. Are you hiding from him? Ignoring the voice whispering to you at night. Escapism-—doing crazy stuff; rationalise him away—does he even exist? - God is throwing out his arms welcoming you home.
Luke 15:11–18 Maybe the younger son left because he wanted freedom/ was encouraged by his friends/ had a fight with his brother/ wanted to have fun.
Are you heading for a pig pen right now? Empty on the inside. Life has no meaning for you.
The younger son finally listened to his soul (came to his senses) v17.
God uses situations to bring us to our senses.
The younger son had his speech ready–was broken and repentant.
His father was waiting and looking out for him.
Most dads would say "I told you so". His father didn't even want to hear his speech.
God simply throws open his arms to welcome him back home. There's no judgement. We are simply beggars showing other beggars where to get food.
V28 The older brother felt self-righteous (counting his sacrifices rather than his blessings), not realising we are all prodigal sons. The heart of love, grace and mercy was gone.
It doesn't matter if we got lost by accident/through no fault of our own/or deliberately.
Watch the full service
here.
(the sermon starts at 41 mins)
