Coming Home To God

Home For The Holidays - 2

December 12/13, 2009

Pastor Michael Rochelle

Luke 15:11-32

Thoughts About God

In His patience, God will not give up

“…While he (the son) was still a long way off, his father saw him…” Luke 15:20

"...He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)

In His passion, God shows extreme love

“… he RAN to his son!” Luke 15:20

“…threw his arms around him and kissed him.” Luke 15:20

“The Lord is loving toward all He has made.” Psalm 145:17 (NIV)

In His forgiveness, God accepts me

“I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” Luke 15:21

“The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him.” Daniel 9:9 (NIV)

Thoughts About Me

1. I need to come to my senses

“When he came to his senses, he said, “How many of my father’s hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death!” Luke 15:17

“Another reason for right living is that you know how late it is; time is running out. Wake up…” Romans 13:11 (NLT)

2. I need to come clean

"…and say to him: ‘Father, I have sinned…’” Luke 15:18

"People who cover over their sins will not prosper. But if they confess and forsake them, they will receive mercy.” Proverbs 28:13 (NLT)

3. I need to come home

“…I will set out and go back to my father…” Luke 15:18

“Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come fearlessly into God's presence, assured of his glad welcome.” Ephesians 3:12 (NLT)

4. I need to come and celebrate

"But the father said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.” Luke 15: 22-24

"Now we rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God – all because of what our Lord Jesus Christ has done in dying for our sins – making us friends of God.” Romans 5:11 (TLB)