Week 3

Look Back

What steps did you take to receive the greatest gift by trusting in Jesus this week? Who did you share the message of good news that brings us lasting joy with this week?

Look Up

Read Luke 15:1-3 and 11-13

1. What did the religious leaders criticize Jesus for doing? What does this say about them and about Jesus?
2. Who does the father represent in this story? Who does the son represent? What was Jesus trying to emphasize in these verses?

Read Luke 15:14-19

1. What did the young man do to end up in a bad situation? How easy is it for you to relate to him and his actions?
2. What did it take for the young man to come to his senses? Why was this significant?
3. What did the young man recognize and accept in verses 18-19? What important message was Jesus trying to send to his audience and how does this apply to people today?

Read Luke 15:20-24

1. What does verse 20 say the father “felt” when he saw his son returning? What did the father do? What does this teach about the nature and attitude of God towards people?
2. What does this parable say about how God views and responds to “sinners”? How should followers of Jesus respond to this truth?

Overall (Discovery Bible Study)

• What do these scriptures say about God?
• What do they say about people?
• How will I apply this to my life?

Look Ahead

Have you ever found yourself reluctant to return back to God? If so, how does Luke 15 help? Who do you know that is far from God and needs an invitation to return home?

Notes

Jesus encouraged people who realize the negative impact of their poor choices to return to God, who as a loving father, welcomes us home regardless of our past choices and actions. Instead of criticizing and demeaning our past, God embraces us and sets us on a new and better path. Followers of Jesus are called to do the same by reaching out and inviting others to turn to God.