“FORGIVEN BEFORE YOU KNOW IT”
MARCH 30 , 2 0 2 5
S E R M O N B Y : R e v . Dr . P . G l e n n K i n k e n I I I
KEY QUOTES • •
“Repentance is not necessary for us to be loved by God.” “We are loved before we know it, God pursues us every day and God rejoices when we realize it.”
SCRIPTURE •
Luke 15:1-10 (click on scripture to read online)
POINTS TO REVISIT The parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin powerfully illustrate God's unwavering love and pursuit of God’s children. Despite criticism from religious leaders about associating with sinners, Jesus demonstrated that God's love doesn't wait for people to become worthy - He loves and pursues us exactly as we are. This unconditional acceptance reveals that God's love precedes repentance and that every person has inherent value in God’s eyes. Like a shepherd leaving 99 sheep to find one or a woman searching diligently for a lost coin, God pursues us relentlessly. This divine pursuit demonstrates our immense worth to God, regardless of society's judgment. We can live joy-filled lives when we accept God’s love, align our lives with God’s teachings, share God’s love with others, and stand up for God’s values in the world.
PRAYER Loving God, open my heart and mind to understand the depth of Your love for me. Help me to see myself and others through Your eyes, recognizing the value You place on each person. Guide me and help me to apply these truths to my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.