Lost and Found

<p>Who is Jesus addressing?</p><ol><li>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</li><li>Jesus bringing honor to sinners by hosting and eating with them</li><li>How does Jesus respond to their grumbling? Telling a parable about joy!</li><li>Focusing on his accusers and wanting them to be drawn into the Kingdom and the purposes of God</li></ol><p>The cultural aspects and the understanding of the day</p><ol><li>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</li><li>The risks and burden of the shepherd</li><li>A story all would identify with</li></ol><p>The theological aspects of the parable</p><ol><li>A sheep goes astray and the shepherd leaves all to find it. Isa 53:6</li><li>Responsibility of the shepherd – Ezekiel 34:11, 14-16</li><li>Joy at finding it</li><li>Willingness to carry the burden, a picture of the cross which would later be understood</li><li>Return home to all who rejoice with him. Joy in community</li><li>Repentance equals Jesus finding us. Which is great grace</li></ol><p>Conclusion</p><p>How do we respond when confronted with our being lost? Especially if we think we are fine?  </p><p>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.   </p><p> </p>