The Love Of God
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your relentless love for the lost, open our hearts to receive what You want to teach us today. Help us understand the depth of Your compassion and how we might reflect it in our own lives. Guide our conversation and show us how we can participate in Your seeking heart for those who don't yet know You. In Jesus' name, amen.
Summary
In this sermon, Pastor Thomas Bonnefield explores Luke 15, focusing on God's profound love for the lost and what that means for believers. Through the parables of the lost sheep, lost coin, and prodigal son, he illustrates how God actively seeks those who don't know Him, orchestrating circumstances to bring them to faith. The message emphasizes that while believers are called to share the gospel, ultimately salvation comes from God alone, offering encouragement to those with unbelieving loved ones.
Key Verses
Luke 15:4-7
Luke 15:8-10
Luke 15:20-24
2 Peter 3:9
John 3:16
Key Takeaways
God deeply loves and actively seeks those who don't know Him, as illustrated in the three parables of Luke 15.
Believers are called to share the gospel and show Christ's love, but ultimately salvation comes from God alone.
For believers with unbelieving loved ones, there should be no place for guilt - God is working in their lives even when we can't see it.
Sometimes maintaining relationships with unbelieving loved ones requires wisdom about when to speak and when to simply demonstrate God's love through actions.
Heaven rejoices when even one sinner repents, showing how much God values each person's salvation.
Ending Prayer
Father God, thank You for Your relentless love that seeks us even when we're far from You. Help us to trust You with our loved ones who don't yet know You, remembering that You love them even more than we do. Give us wisdom to know when to speak and when to simply demonstrate Your love through our actions. Remove any guilt or shame we might feel, and replace it with confidence in Your perfect timing and sovereign work in their lives. May we be faithful witnesses of Your grace as we wait expectantly for the day when heaven rejoices over their salvation. In Jesus' name, amen.