In this rich and pastoral exposition of Luke 15, RE Aaron Vanderhorst unfolds the glorious truth of Heaven’s joy in the salvation of sinners through the three well-known parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son.
This sermon highlights the contrast between the cold formalism of the Pharisees and the compassionate heart of Christ toward lost sinners. Through these parables, we are shown not only the desperate condition of fallen man, but also the marvelous grace of the Triune God in salvation.
The sermon beautifully draws attention to the distinct work of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit in seeking, finding, restoring, and receiving sinners unto Himself. The wandering sheep reveals our spiritual helplessness, the lost coin our deadness in sin, and the prodigal son our rebellious hearts that turn away from God. Yet above all, this passage reveals Heaven rejoicing when even one sinner repents and returns to Christ.
This message is both a call to repentance and a comfort to weary sinners and grieving parents alike — reminding us that God delights in showing mercy, and that true joy is found only in Christ.
“There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” — Luke 15 verse 10