Discovery Pathway Classes - Baptism and Spirit-Filled LivingUzorak

I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.

Luke 15:7

Congratulations on your Baptism! We are celebrating with you that you have walked from death into new life in Jesus! Over the next few days, we will focus on helping you understand your identity in Christ. The truth is that walking with Jesus does not mean that every day will be easy. On the contrary, the Bible tells us clearly that we will face trials and hardship along the way. How can your faith remain anchored to Jesus during those times?

Think back to the baptism of Jesus. Remember how the Father spoke words over Jesus on that day to strengthen Jesus for the trials ahead. Understanding your identity in Christ and how God sees you, can provide an anchor during the storms of life.

This week, we will focus on a group of parables that Jesus told in Luke 15. All these stories focused on lost things being found and the celebration that followed! The situation in which Jesus told these parables is important. The chapter starts with, “Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus” (Luke 15:1). These men and women were brand new friends of Jesus. It was obvious to those around them that their old life was not far behind. But throughout the Gospels, Jesus welcomed men and women like this. He sought them out and enjoyed dinners and long conversations with them. He did not hide the fact that these men and women were his friends.

The next line brings in the tension of this chapter. “But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them” (Luke 15:2). You are a new creation in Jesus. You have come from death to new life in him. But there will be those along the way who criticize or question the change they see in you. You might feel the need to defend yourself. You also might begin to believe they are right. Did Jesus change me? Does he love me unconditionally? Does he accept me? In this chapter of Luke, the men and women gathering around Jesus probably were asking the same thing. They were facing the shame and embarrassment of being called out by some “religious” gossipers. What should they do? What was Jesus going to do?

Over the next few days, we will read portions of this chapter each day to dig deep into the layers of this story. Some readings will be repeated, but don’t worry; we are repeating them on purpose. Just like with a great movie, there are details of this story you will only notice after watching it unfold a few times. When you see the heart of Jesus, the care and protection he offers, and the love with which he communicates, your heart will be impacted. Enjoy getting to know Jesus and his love for you this week!