Free group study handout
Luke 15: Group Study Handout
How to use: read Luke 15 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.
Overview
Tax collectors and sinners come close to Jesus to hear him. The Pharisees and scribes complain that he welcomes sinners and eats with them (vv. 1-2).
Key verse
“Even so, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner repenting.”
Luke 15:10 (WEB)
Outline
- Luke 15:1–2 Sinners Draw Near to Jesus
- Luke 15:3–10 Parables of the Lost
- Luke 15:11–24 The Prodigal Son's Return
- Luke 15:25–32 The Elder Brother's Resentment
Discussion questions
- In v6, why does the shepherd say, 'Rejoice with me' after finding the lost sheep?
- In v10, what is the reaction in heaven when one sinner repents?
- The younger son's statement in v19, 'Make me as one of your hired servants': what does this suggest about his understanding of forgiveness?
- In v28, why does the elder son refuse to enter the house?
- When has a time of need made you rethink your relationship with your 'father' or authority?
Go deeper
Passages that echo Luke 15: Luke 19, Ezekiel 34, Ephesians 2.
Before next time: read Luke 16.