ESOCS Devotional 12 February 2023
TEXT: LUKE 15:1-10
MEMORY VERSE: “And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, this man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them”. Luke 15:2
One of the teaching methods of Jesus Christ was the use of parables – earthly stories with spiritual and heavenly meaning. In our text, two parables were presented – the parable of the lost sheep and the parable of the lost coin. Jesus used these two parables to teach that religiosity can be a barrier to soul-winning. The “publicans and sinners” came to listen to Jesus’ teaching (verse 1), but the Pharisees and scribes did not like the association (verse 2).
These religious leaders were always careful to remain “clean” based on the Old Testament Law. With this law, they must avoid certain people and situations, and must always wash their hands, legs, etc. to remain pure (ritual washing). They expected Jesus to also be doing the same – religiosity. But Jesus ignored them and showed complete disregard for their sanctions. He continued associating with those who needed Him. He came to offer salvation to sinners, to show that God loves them.
The lesson for us is that we should not severe our association with our friends, relatives, etc. who are not born again; but we should use the opportunity to bring them to Christ. We should establish new relationships with unbelievers with the aim of converting them. But there is a caveat: we must be careful to avoid them drawing us back. Whenever anyone of them is converted, there is joy in heaven, and among the angels of God over the conversion (verses 7, 10).
- Does what people will say draw you back from associating with unbelievers?
- The Holy Spirit is the one who directs. Pray for His direction.
FURTHER READING: Matthew 18:11; Luke 19:1-10
Read Yesterday’s ESOCS Devotional here
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ESOCS Devotional 12 February 2023
