Heaven Throws a Party When Sinners and Outcasts Turn to God

Sermon Title: Heaven Throws a Party When Sinners and Outcasts Turn to God
Scripture Text: Luke 15:1–7

1. Key Scriptures

• Luke 15:1–7

• Isaiah 53:6

• Matthew 11:28

• Luke 19:10

• Revelation 7:17

2. Sermon Flow & Takeaways

I. Jesus Welcomes and Fellowships with Sinners and Outcasts

Jesus’ critics meant it as an insult that He receives sinners, but it's actually the greatest news for all of us. He draws near to the broken, the defiled, and the rejected.

• Jesus is not repelled by your sin, He moves toward you with grace.

• As believers, we must not forget that we too were once outsiders welcomed in.

II. Jesus Came from Heaven to Look for You

Jesus shares the parable of the lost sheep to show His relentless pursuit of those who have wandered. He is the Good Shepherd who searches until He finds.

• Your salvation was initiated by God’s mercy, not your merit.

• No one is too far gone for the love of Christ to reach them.

III. Jesus and All of Heaven Celebrate When Sinners Repent

When even one sinner turns to Jesus, heaven throws a party. Repentance is not met with rejection but with rejoicing.

• Repentance is turning from self to God, and it brings joy to the heart of Christ.

• Don’t let shame keep you from coming to Jesus; He delights to receive you.

3. Primary Sources (cited)

• C.S. Lewis – The Great Exchange (concept referenced)

• Cross-reference to Matthew 11:28, Luke 19:10, and Revelation 7:17

4. Additional Resources

• Article: “The Heart of Christ in Heaven Towards Sinners on Earth” by Thomas Goodwin (available on Monergism.com)

• Video: The Prodigal God – Tim Keller's sermon series on Luke 15

• Devotional: “Gentle and Lowly” by Dane Ortlund (especially chapters on Luke 15)