I tell you, in the same way there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need to repent.
Into the Text
As we reflect on today’s passage, we can find great comfort in the way Jesus promises to seek and save the lost. When we repent and are found by Him, there is great rejoicing in heaven!
But how do we, as believers, view the lost? The Pharisees and religious leaders had become prideful—like the older son and the rich man—and believed they deserved salvation because of their obedience to the law. They looked with contempt at those they considered “sinners,” those Jesus looked at with love and compassion.
How do you view those who do not know Jesus, attend church, or have a Christian worldview? Jesus’ specific warnings in this passage were to the religious leaders who believed they were justified in their actions. While we know and believe that our justification comes through Christ alone, it can be easy to fall into the mindset of the religious leaders.
Jesus came to save the lost—which we each were at one time, or perhaps are right now. He will not let any one of His sheep stay lost. As the Good Shepherd, Jesus will go to great lengths to save His own from perishing. He knows what it takes to reach you.
We, too, were once enemies of God, but have been offered new life in Him. None of us are good, righteous, or worthy of being saved. Jesus and all of heaven rejoice over every lost person who repents. As His followers, we know what it was like to be lost and the true joy of being found. May we continue to follow Him, especially as we seek the lost. Only Jesus can save, but we can rejoice over every sinner who is found.