The Heart of the Father: Repentance, Humility, and Redemption Revealed
- Be God's Glory
- 1 day ago
- 11 min read
Welcome to Day 300 of The Glory Team Bible Reading Plan.
In these chapters, Jesus confronts the spiritual blindness and pride of the religious leaders while simultaneously revealing the depths of God’s mercy toward repentant sinners. He calls for urgent repentance, teaches on the cost of discipleship, and unveils the Father’s heart through parables of lostness and restoration. Together, these chapters reveal a central truth: God is not impressed by outward religiosity, but He deeply rejoices over every sinner who turns back to Him. Jesus uses real-life teachings, warnings, and stories to show that the Kingdom of God is available to those who respond in humility, compassion, and faith.
Luke 13
In Luke 13, Jesus emphasizes the urgent need for repentance, teaching that tragedies are not always a direct result of sin, but that all people must turn back to God before it is too late. He shares the parable of the barren fig tree to illustrate God’s patience and desire for fruitfulness in the lives of His people, yet also warns of impending judgment for unrepentance. Jesus heals a woman on the Sabbath, exposing the hypocrisy of the religious leaders who valued tradition over compassion. He further describes the Kingdom of God using the parables of the mustard seed and leaven, showing that although small in appearance, the Kingdom will expand powerfully. The chapter ends with Jesus lamenting over Jerusalem’s rejection of Him, revealing His deep longing to gather His people, even as they harden their hearts against His call.
Luke 14
In Luke 14, Jesus challenges social norms and religious pride by healing a man on the Sabbath and confronting the Pharisees’ obsession with status. He tells a parable about guests seeking honor at banquets, teaching that true exaltation comes from humility before God. Jesus then shares the parable of the Great Banquet, revealing Israel’s rejection of God’s invitation and the opening of the Kingdom to the outcasts and Gentiles. He emphasizes that following Him requires total surrender, even above family relationships, possessions, and personal ambition. The chapter concludes with a warning that discipleship has a cost, and only those willing to fully commit will be useful in God’s Kingdom.
Luke 15
Luke 15 reveals the heart of God for the lost through three powerful parables: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son. Each story highlights God’s relentless pursuit of sinners and His overwhelming joy when even one person repents. The parable of the prodigal son especially demonstrates God’s grace, as a rebellious son is restored not with condemnation but with celebration. Meanwhile, the older brother’s resentment exposes the danger of self-righteousness and a heart disconnected from the Father’s love. Through these parables, Jesus makes it clear that heaven rejoices over restoration, and God’s greatest desire is to bring His lost children home.
Origin & Meaning of the Name:
The name Luke comes from the Latin Lucas or Lucanus, which is believed to be derived from the Greek word Loukas, meaning “light-giving” or “bringer of light.” This meaning is fitting, as the Gospel of Luke shines light on Jesus as the Savior for all humanity, illuminating God’s love, mercy, and salvation.
Purpose of the Book:
Luke explicitly states his purpose in Luke 1:3–4:“…it seemed good to me also… to write an orderly account… that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.”
Primary Purposes:
To present an accurate historical account of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.
To show Jesus as the Savior of all people—not only Jews but also Gentiles, women, the poor, and the marginalized.
To emphasize the humanity and compassion of Jesus, highlighting His role as the “Son of Man.”
To provide assurance to believers that the Christian faith is grounded in truth and eyewitness testimony.
To prepare readers for the mission of the Church, which is continued in the Book of Acts.
Authorship & Sources Supporting the Author:
The Gospel of Luke is universally attributed to Luke the physician, a Gentile companion of the Apostle Paul. Evidence from Scripture and early church history strongly supports this authorship:
Biblical Evidence:
Colossians 4:14 – Paul refers to “Luke, the beloved physician,” distinguishing him from Jewish companions, indicating he was likely a Gentile.
2 Timothy 4:11 – “Only Luke is with me,” showing a close companionship.
Philemon 24 – Luke is listed among Paul’s fellow laborers.
Acts 1:1 directly references the Gospel of Luke as its first volume: “In my former book, Theophilus…”—showing that the same author wrote both Luke and Acts.
Historical and External Sources:
Early Church Fathers
Irenaeus (AD 180) stated: “Luke, the companion of Paul, recorded in a book the Gospel preached by him.”
Eusebius of Caesarea (4th century) confirmed Luke as the author in his Ecclesiastical History.
The Muratorian Fragment (circa AD 170) identifies Luke as the physician who wrote the Gospel.
Luke was not an eyewitness to Jesus’ ministry but gathered his information carefully from eyewitness accounts (Luke 1:1–4). His Gospel is the most historically and chronologically detailed, reflecting the work of a careful researcher and historian.
Key People:
Jesus Christ – The central figure; presented as the Son of Man and Savior of the world.
Mary – The mother of Jesus; her faith and prophetic declarations are highlighted.
Zechariah and Elizabeth – Parents of John the Baptist, showing God’s faithfulness to His covenant.
John the Baptist – The forerunner of the Messiah.
The Apostles – Especially Peter, James, John, and the Twelve.
Simeon and Anna – Prophets who confirm Jesus' identity shortly after His birth.
Herod Antipas – Ruler involved in Jesus’ trial.
Pontius Pilate – Roman governor who presides over Jesus’ crucifixion.
The women disciples – Especially Mary Magdalene and other women who play a prominent role in supporting Jesus’ ministry and witnessing His resurrection.
Theophilus – The individual to whom Luke’s Gospel is addressed; believed to be a high-ranking official or patron.
Conclusion
The Gospel of Luke concludes with Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, confirming His identity as the risen Messiah and Son of God. It emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecy and the unstoppable nature of God’s salvation plan. Luke ends with a call to witness: Jesus commissions His disciples to preach repentance and forgiveness in His name to all nations, starting from Jerusalem (Luke 24:46–49).
The Book of Luke shines as a Gospel of hope, compassion, and divine purpose, inviting believers to see Jesus as the Savior who came “to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). It bridges the Old Testament promises to their fulfillment in Christ and prepares the stage for the global mission of the Church continued in Acts. It is a testimony that the light has come into the world—not for one nation only, but for all humanity.
What is God's Name in these Chapters?
In this portion of our journey we want to dive deep into the character of God described in His name. By identifying who God is, we can further relate to Him personally and build a stronger relationship and connection with Our Father.
Names are important. They give significance to places, people, and things. We identify with so much based off what it's name is. This is considerably notable when it comes to the names of God.
"Jehovah" is considered a Latinized version of the Hebrew name "Yahweh" (represented by the consonants YHWH) where the vowels of the Hebrew word "Adonai" (meaning "my Lord") were added to the Tetragrammaton (YHWH) when pronounced by Jewish readers who avoided saying the sacred name directly; essentially, Christian scholars combined the consonants of YHWH with the vowels of Adonai to create the pronunciation "Jehovah" in the Latin alphabet.
Luke 13
In Luke 13, God is revealed as both patient and righteous, giving people time to repent while warning of judgment for unfruitfulness. Jesus portrays God as compassionate, seen through the healing of the crippled woman, showing that God prioritizes deliverance and mercy over man-made religious rules. God is deeply grieved when His people reject Him, expressing a desire to gather and protect them like a loving parent, but He respects human choice.
Although specific Hebrew names of God are not explicitly mentioned, His character reflects El Rachum (The Compassionate God), showing mercy to those bound by spiritual affliction. The lesson in this chapter teaches that repentance is not optional—it is urgent and necessary. God is both the just Judge and the merciful Redeemer, calling His people to bear fruit and respond to His invitation before the door is shut.
Luke 14
In Luke 14, God is shown as the One who values humility over pride and sincerity over self-exaltation. He is the gracious Host who extends His invitation to all, including the poor, broken, and rejected, revealing His heart for the outcast. God is a loving Father who desires genuine discipleship, not half-hearted devotion.
While Hebrew names are not directly cited, God’s nature reflects the name Adonai (Lord and Master), calling His followers to full submission and commitment. The chapter teaches that following God requires sacrifice and willingness to forsake worldly status and possessions. The lesson is clear: true relationship with God is not about position or religion, but humble obedience and surrender to His will.
Luke 15
Luke 15 powerfully reveals God as loving, pursuing, and full of joy over every repentant sinner. He is not distant or harsh, but actively seeks the lost, celebrates their return, and restores them with honor. His love is unconditional, patient, and redemptive, welcoming even those who have walked far from Him.
Though no Hebrew names are explicitly referenced, God’s actions reflect the nature of Jehovah Rohi (The Lord My Shepherd), who searches for His lost sheep, and El Ahavah (God of Love), who embraces the repentant with compassion. The lesson in this chapter is that no one is beyond God’s reach, and heaven rejoices over every soul that returns. God teaches us to reflect His heart by extending grace, forgiveness, and restoration rather than judgment or resentment.
Christ in Every Book of the Bible
Christ is the theme throughout the Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, God reveals His Son, Jesus Christ.
Christ is the Seed of the woman Genesis 3:14 , He is the Passover Lamb Exodus 12:3, The Atoning Sacrifice Leviticus 17:11, The Smitten Rock Numbers 20:8, 11, The Faithful Prophet Deuteronomy 18:18, Christ is the Captain of the Lord's Host Joshua 5:15, The Divine Deliverer Judges 2:18, The Kinsman Redeemer Ruth 3:12, Christ is the anticipated as the Anointed One,1 Samuel 2:10, The Son of David 2 Samuel 7:14, The Coming King 1 & 2 Kings, Builder of the Temple 1 & 2 Chronicles (1 Chronicles 28:20), Ezra represents Christ as the Restorer of the Nation Ezra 6:14, 15, Nehemiah shows Him as the Restorer of the Temple Nehemiah 6:15, and Esther portrays Him as the Preserver of the Nation Ester 4:14, Christ is seen as the Living Redeemer Job 19:25, The Praise of Israel Psalm 150:6, The Wisdom of God Proverbs 8:22, 23, The Great Teacher Ecclesiastics 12:11, The Fairest of Ten Thousand Song of Solomon 5:10. Christ is the Suffering Servant Isaiah 53:11, The Maker of the New Covenant Jeremiah 31:31, The Man of Sorrows Lamentations 3:28-30, The Glory of God Ezekiel 43:2, The coming Messiah Daniel 9:25, The Lover of the Unfaithful Hosea 3:1, The Hope of Israel Joel 3:16, The Husbandman Amos 9:13, the Savior Obadiah 21, the Resurrected One Jonah 2:10, the Ruler in Israel Micah 5:2, the Avenger Nahum 2:1, the Holy God Habakkuk 1:13, the King of Israel Zephaniah 3:15, the Desire of Nations Haggai 2:7, the Righteous Branch Zechariah 3:8, and the Sun of Righteousness Malachi 4:2.
The King of the Jews Matthew 2:2, the Servant of the Lord Mark 10:45, the Son of Man Luke 19:10, and the Son of God John 1:1. Christ is the Ascended Lord Acts 1:10, the believer's Righteousness Romans 1:17, Sanctification 1 Corinthians 1:30, Sufficiency 2 Corinthians 12:9, and Liberty Galatians 2:4. He is the Exalted Head of the church Ephesians 1:22, the Christian's Joy Philippians 1:26, and the Fullness of Deity Colossians 2:9. In the Thessalonian epistles Christ is the believer's Comfort 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17 and Glory 2 Thessalonians 1:12. The Christian's Preserver 1 Timothy 4:10, Rewarder 2 Timothy 4:8, Blessed Hope Titus 2:13, and Substitute Philemon 17. He is the High Priest Hebrews 4:15, the Giver of Wisdom James 1:5, the Rock 1 Peter 2:6, and Precious Promise 2 Peter 1:4. John represents Christ as the Life 1 John, the Truth 2 John, and the Way 3 John, Jude portrays Christ as the Advocate and Revelation shows Him as King of Kings and Lord of Lords Revelation 19:16. The whole Bible is literally all about Christ!
Questions:
Let's expand how these chapters expanded your faith and your relationship with God.
Questions About God's Character: What do these chapters reveal about God’s faithfulness to His word and promises?
What does Jesus’ call to repentance in Luke 13 reveal about God’s desire for our spiritual growth and transformation?
How does the healing of the crippled woman on the Sabbath show God’s heart for mercy over religious legalism?
What does the parable of the great banquet in Luke 14 teach us about God’s inclusive nature and His desire to welcome all into His Kingdom?
In what ways do the parables in Luke 15 reveal God as a seeking and saving God who rejoices over repentant sinners?
How is God’s patience shown in the parable of the barren fig tree, and what does this reveal about His character toward those who have not yet borne fruit?
What does Jesus’ desire to gather Jerusalem like a hen gathering her chicks say about His nurturing and protective nature?
How do the actions of the father in the parable of the prodigal son illustrate God’s love, forgiveness, and readiness to restore His children?
Questions About Themes:
What is the central theme of repentance found throughout Luke 13–15, and why does Jesus emphasize its urgency?
How do themes of humility and exaltation emerge in Jesus’ teachings on choosing the lowest seat and counting the cost in Luke 14?
In what ways do the parables of the lost sheep, coin, and son illustrate the theme of God’s relentless pursuit of the lost?
What theme is highlighted by Jesus’ warning that the last shall be first and the first shall be last?
How is the tension between religious expectations and God’s heart for compassion presented in these chapters?
Why is the concept of the “Kingdom of God” central to these passages, and how does Jesus describe who will enter it?
How do these chapters contrast external religious appearance with true heart transformation and surrender?
Reflective Application Questions:
Is there any area in your life where God is inviting you to repent and bear spiritual fruit, and how will you respond to that call?
Are there traditions, habits, or comforts that may be causing you to resist God’s guidance or limiting your compassion toward others?
In light of Jesus’ teaching on humility, how can you choose to take the lower seat and serve rather than seek recognition?
What “cost” of discipleship is God asking you to consider right now, and are you willing to surrender it for the sake of following Him fully?
Which of the lost parables in Luke 15 do you relate to most—the lost sheep, lost coin, or the prodigal son—and why?
When you see others receive God’s grace or restoration, do you respond with joy like the Father or with resentment like the older brother?
How can you reflect the Father’s heart by actively pursuing and showing love to those who are spiritually lost or disconnected?
These questions can help deepen understanding of the themes of these chapters, while encouraging trust in God's sovereignty, justice, faithfulness, and timing. We hope thoughts to these questions invite you to reflect on your own journeys, grow in faith, and understand more about God's nature.
Reference Guides:
Life Application Study Guide
A Popular Survey of the Old Testament by Norman L. Geisler
The Power of God's Names by Tony Evans
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