Who is Jesus addressing?

1. What is the context of their grumbling -  last chapter about hospitality into hostile surveillance and rejection, so the parable addressed their rejection - they do not remember their God given calling and purpose. Their interests are very self centered
2. Jesus bringing honor to sinners by hosting and eating with them
3. How does Jesus respond to their grumbling? Telling a parable about joy!
4. Focusing on his accusers and wanting them to be drawn into the Kingdom and the purposes of God

The cultural aspects and the understanding of the day

1. 100 sheep would be a rich man. In this instance probably a community or relatives with designated shepherds, not hirelings. Question about the rest left in the wilderness
2. The risks and burden of the shepherd
3. A story all would identify with

The theological aspects of the parable

1. A sheep goes astray and the shepherd leaves all to find it. Isa 53:6
2. Responsibility of the shepherd – Ezekiel 34:11, 14-16
3. Joy at finding it
4. Willingness to carry the burden, a picture of the cross which would later be understood
5. Return home to all who rejoice with him. Joy in community
6. Repentance equals Jesus finding us. Which is great grace

Conclusion

How do we respond when confronted with our being lost? Especially if we think we are fine?  

Understand that repentance is not a means of bringing the Kingdom into our lives. Rather repentance is a response to being found by the King.