Rev. Cyril A. Stevens – Sermon 0086B recorded on September 16, 1979 teaching from Luke 15 – Christ Seeks the Lost.
Pastor Stevens delivers an extended interpretation of the parable of the lost sheep, coin, and son found in Luke 15. He argues that this chapter constitutes a single parable with three parts, each highlighting a different aspect of God’s love and pursuit of the lost. The lost sheep represent humanity’s need for a Savior, emphasizing Christ’s suffering and sacrifice as the Good Shepherd who seeks out His lost sheep. The lost coin symbolizes the Holy Spirit’s work in illuminating and drawing individuals to repentance, sweeping away obstacles and revealing their need for God. Finally, the parable of the prodigal son emphasizes God’s boundless love and joyful welcome for repentant sinners, contrasting it with the self-righteousness of the elder brother. Through these interconnected stories, Pastor Stevens encourages his listeners to recognize their own need for God’s grace and embrace the joy of salvation.