What is the meaning of Luke 15:3? Then • The word “Then” anchors Luke 15:3 in its immediate context, following verses 1-2 where “all the tax collectors and sinners were gathering around to listen to Him,” while “the Pharisees and scribes began to grumble.” • Luke signals a turning point; Jesus is responding directly to the religious leaders’ complaint that He “welcomes sinners and eats with them.” (See Luke 5:30-31; Matthew 9:10-13.) • “Then” reminds us that what follows is not an isolated saying but heaven’s answer to self-righteous murmuring. It underlines God’s perfect timing—He speaks exactly when correction and revelation are needed. Jesus • The Person speaking is the incarnate Son of God, the “faithful and true Witness” (Revelation 3:14), whose words carry absolute authority. • He is the Good Shepherd who will shortly describe His own search for the lost sheep (John 10:11). By placing His name here, Luke points to divine compassion ready to act. • When Jesus speaks, He reveals the Father’s heart (John 5:19; Hebrews 1:1-3). The verse invites us to listen with humility, knowing these are not mere human opinions but God’s unerring truth. told them • “Them” includes two contrasting groups: repentant sinners eager to hear and religious critics looking to condemn. Jesus addresses both simultaneously. • His approach models grace and truth: He does not drive away the broken, yet He confronts the proud (Luke 19:10; Mark 2:17). • The phrase highlights that divine revelation is communicated, not hidden; God wants His audience to understand and respond. this parable • A parable is a simple story conveying a profound spiritual reality. Here it is the parable of the lost sheep that follows in verses 4-7. • Parables both reveal and sift hearts. Those hungry for God receive clearer light; the self-satisfied remain in the dark (Matthew 13:10-17). • In Scripture, parables often emphasize God’s kingdom values over man’s traditions. This particular parable underscores heaven’s joy over one repentant sinner, exposing the Pharisees’ failure to rejoice (Luke 15:4-7; Ezekiel 34:11-16). • By saying “this parable,” Luke signals that the teaching is laser-focused, not random. Jesus crafts a specific illustration tailored to the exact issue at hand: disdain for the lost. summary Luke 15:3 sets the stage for one of Scripture’s most beloved illustrations of grace. With perfect timing (“Then”) the divine Shepherd (“Jesus”) addresses a mixed crowd (“told them”) through a purposeful story (“this parable”). The verse reminds us that God’s Word confronts pride, comforts sinners, and invites every listener to rejoice with heaven over the rescue of the lost. |
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