The Gospel of Grace

Scripture Text: Luke 7:36-50

Isaac Newton, “I Asked the Lord That I Might Grow”, (1779)
These inward trials I employ,
From self, and praise, to set thee free;
And break thy schemes of earthly joy,
That thous may’st find they all in Me.

Dane Ortland, Deeper
Around Jesus, sinners-those who know themselves to be sinners-felt safe. They find themselves both known to be guilty and embraced in love, rather than one or the other. Our felt shame is what draws Jesus in. He is the mighty friend of sinners. And what other kind of Savior will do? Who of us could really get fresh traction in our lives if we were following a Savior who kept at a safe distance? Who treated us not like friends but like employees? But if this is a Savior who draws near to us, who is repelled only by selfrighteousness but never by acknowledged shame and weakness, there is no limit to just how deep a transformation is possible in us. It is at our point of deepest guilt and regret that his friendship embraces us most assuredly, most steadfastly.

Darryl Bock, Luke
A question to ponder is why those outside the faith, like tax collectors and sinners, were so drawn to Jesus. What did they sense from him that made his message of interest to them?

Application Questions

1. What is your next step with discipleship in Jesus?

2. To what community has God called you to be on mission?

3. How will you prioritize “life together” here at Oaks Parish?