THE FULLNESS OF FORGIVENESS

The Father’s Forgiveness

April 3, 2016

Please turn in your Bibles to Luke 15:11-24

Big Idea: “God has a big eraser!”

The Parable of the Prodigal Son: Interesting Facts

First: the word prodigal isn’t a Biblical Word

“How deep the Father’s love for us,

how vast beyond all measure…

That He should give His only Son,

to make a wretch His treasure.”

Second: It’s one of three parables in Luke 15 addressing same theme

Third: Jesus uses it to confront holier than thou attitudes

“Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around

to hear Jesus. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered,

“This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Luke 15:1

“I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” Luke 15:7

Jesus! what a Friend for sinners!

Jesus! Lover of my soul;

Friends may fail me, foes assail me,

He, my Savior, makes me whole.

Hallelujah! what a Savior! Hallelujah! what a Friend!

Saving, helping, keeping, loving,

He is with me to the end.

There is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.

Luke 15:10

THE FATHER’S FORGIVENESS (V20)

V 20a: The Father anticipates your homecoming

V 20b: The Father shows compassion toward you

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. 16Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:15:

V 20c: The Father goes the distance toward us

Come near to God and he will come near to you. James 4:7

V 20d: The Father gathers you into His arms

V 20e: The Father gives his seal of approval

What is God’s Spirit speaking into your life today? How must you respond?