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Reference

Luke 15:11-32

Sermon Notes

Community and Grace

Small Group Guide: The Prodigal Son - Seeing Others as Jesus Sees Them

Opening Prayer 

Key Quotes:

  • Jesus is saying this isn't just a loss of property. This fracture of relationship is literally a loss of life.
  • Jesus shows us that his Father isn't a God who sits back and waits for us, but a God who runs after us.
  • The son was not whole without his community, but neither was the community whole without this lost son.
  • Jesus is trying to help them see others as he sees them. See, when we see this story about a father and these two sons, maybe, just maybe, we can start to see others as Jesus sees them.

READ LUKE 15:1-3, 15-32

Discussion Questions:

  1. The sermon begins with examples of sibling rivalry. How have you experienced or witnessed this in your own life?
  2. Pastor Josh mentions that the Greek word used for "property" in the parable could also mean "life." How does this change your understanding of the father's actions and the son's request?
  3. Discuss a time when you felt utterly alone or disconnected. How did it affect you physically, emotionally, and spiritually? What helped you find community again?
  4. The father in the parable runs to meet his son. How does this surprise our expectations? What does this tell us about God’s character?
  5. How do you think the community's perception of the prodigal son might have changed after witnessing the father's forgiveness and celebration?
  6. The older brother's jealousy caused him to miss out on the celebration. Have you ever let jealousy or resentment keep you from experiencing joy or community?
  7. The sermon challenges us to see others as Jesus sees them. Who are the "tax collectors and sinners" in our society today? How can we change our perspective to see others as Jesus sees them?

Practical Applications:

  1. This week, when you encounter someone you find difficult to love or understand, pause and pray, "Jesus, help me to see them as you see them."
  2. Reach out to someone who might be feeling lonely or disconnected. Invite them to coffee, a meal, or a church event.
  3. Write a letter (even if you don't send it) to someone you need to forgive, expressing your desire to extend grace as the father did in the parable.

Closing Prayer

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