Sermon
The Lost Sheep
Cornerstone Church of Ames
Speaker: Mark Vance
March 8, 2026 · 32 min
Summary
Through the parable of the lost sheep, Jesus reveals God as a seeking shepherd who joyfully pursues sinners, not a begrudging savior. The sermon contrasts the self-righteous Pharisees' contempt for sinners with God's transformative grace, calling listeners to remember their lostness and trust Christ's redemptive love.
Highlights
The salvation of sinners is not a wise proposition. Jesus has existed forever as the eternally loved son of God, perfect in holiness and grace. Why would he leave the joys of heaven to go after us? Business calculus doesn't get you there, but love does.
Self-righteousness is trusting in yourself that you're righteous and looking down your nose at everybody else.
The most important thing this parable tells you is this: this is what your God's like. He's a good shepherd, he lays his life down for the sheep.