Scripture to Read: Luke 15:1-2
As we continue our journey through the parables of our Lord Jesus Christ, this week’s focus is on the prodigal son. To better understand why Jesus initially shared this parable, we read in Luke 15:1-2 that tax collectors and sinners were being drawn to our Lord Jesus Christ to listen to Him. Then we also read the Pharisees and scribes’ reaction, that all they did was grumble against our Lord because He ate with sinners. If we’re not careful, we can fall into the trap of thinking that some people are more worthy of God’s love, forgiveness, mercy, and grace than others might be. God warns us against an attitude of favoritism throughout His Word. Our Lord Jesus Christ deals with the Pharisees and scribes here in Luke 15 through His parables, but, of course, He is dealing with us too. We also find this same teaching against favoritism in James 2:1-13. God reminds us in James 2:10 that all it takes is one sin to separate us from Him. God also tells us in James 2:10 that by only committing just one sin, that one sin makes us guilty of committing all sins. God makes it incredibly clear that none of us are any better than anyone else, and that all of us need a relationship with Him through our Lord Jesus Christ. Knowing that we have all broken every command of our Lord, every sin there is, ought to humble us to be more diligent in loving others who do not know Christ yet.
Challenge & Application
1. What did God teach you today about favoritism and thinking you’re better than anyone else?
2. Who will you share the love of Christ with this week who you know needs a relationship with Him?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!