What other scriptures emphasize God's joy over one sinner who repents? God’s Celebration in Luke 15 • Luke 15:7 – “In the same way, I tell you that there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous ones who do not need to repent.” • Luke 15:10 – “In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels over one sinner who repents.” • Luke 15:22-24 – “‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him… Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let us feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.” The Lost Sheep Revisited – Matthew 18:12-14 • Matthew 18:13 – “And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he rejoices more over that one sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not wander off.” • Matthew 18:14 – “In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish.” Old Testament Portraits of Divine Rejoicing • Zephaniah 3:17 – “The LORD your God is among you; He is mighty to save. He will rejoice over you with gladness… He will rejoice over you with singing.” • Isaiah 62:5 – “As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so your God will rejoice over you.” • Jeremiah 32:41 – “Yes, I will rejoice in doing them good… with all My heart and soul.” God’s Heart Revealed in His Reluctance to Judge • Ezekiel 18:23 – “Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked?… Would I not prefer that he turn from his ways and live?” • Ezekiel 33:11 – “As surely as I live… I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that the wicked turn from his way and live.” • 2 Peter 3:9 – “The Lord… is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance.” • 1 Timothy 2:3-4 – “This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” New Testament Echoes of Heaven’s Party • 1 Timothy 1:15-16 – “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners… so that in me, the foremost, Christ Jesus might display His perfect patience.” • Hebrews 12:2 – “For the joy set before Him He endured the cross…” • Revelation 19:7 – “Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him the glory! For the marriage of the Lamb has come…” Putting It All Together Scripture consistently paints a picture of a God who rejoices—indeed, throws a celebration—whenever even one wandering heart turns back to Him. From the prophets to the parables, from the cross to the coming wedding feast, the same melody rings out: heaven erupts in joy over every repentant sinner. |
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