Lost & Found

Matt Hamer

Children’s Pastor

Key Scripture

Luke 15

Discussion Questions

Don’t be afraid to add to this list, skip questions that don’t work for your group, or branch off with additional questions as discussion unfolds. Conversation is key! This is the time to work through the application of scripture and have group members figure things out together.

Although we may be familiar with the three parables in Luke chapter 15, there is always something new to be found when we look closer. Was there something that stood out to you in any of these stories you had never thought of? Please share with your group.
Read Luke 15:1–2. We read that some people are attracted to Jesus and His ministry because of the way He cares for them, while others are repelled by Him. How does knowing this help or change your approach to sharing truth with non-believers?
Regarding that same passage (Luke 15:1–2), Pastor Matt mentioned that “The Pharisees and scribes knew a lot about the laws of God but knew very little about the heart of God.” With that in mind, how did the parables in chapter 15 speak directly to their need? How often do we point out the sins in others while covering our sins?
Review the various aspects of the sinner that each of these three parables highlight (hint: the sheep, the coin, the younger son). What does this teach us about ourselves, and what does it teach us about the nature of God?
Read Luke 19:10. God seeks out the lost to save them from their sins and to have a personal, growing relationship with them. Reflect on your testimony if you’re a follower of Jesus and share how God sought after you before you came to believe in Him. How does He pursue you now? What is your response to His daily pursuit? How can God use you (or how is He using you) to help pursue a lost sheep in your circle of influence?
When referencing the third parable regarding the prodigal son, Pastor Matt spoke about the significance of the heart of the Father, as illustrated in the story. Have you ever thought about how the father in the story went out to meet not just his younger son (as is often discussed) but how he also went out to meet his older son as well? How is this an amazing picture of God’s love for us and His seeking after us in all circumstances?
Have you ever found yourself too busy doing “stuff” to serve God (even if they are good things) that you lost sight of who you are serving and what exactly He cares about? God wants us to serve Him, but He cares much more about who we are and our relationship with Him. How can we balance these things in a way that is pleasing to Him?

Accountability

Where are you reading in the Bible this week? What has God been revealing to you through your quiet time with Him?
Discuss any struggles you may be going through with your group.
How can you pray for your group this week? How can they be praying for you?