Chuck Smith emphasizes the joy of finding the lost, as illustrated in Luke 15, where the lost sinner is sought by Christ. He discusses the futility of seeking fulfillment outside of God, highlighting how people often waste their God-given resources on temporary pleasures, leading to spiritual emptiness. The sermon reflects on the moment of realization when one 'comes to himself' and recognizes the need for God's love and provision. Smith encourages listeners to confront their fears about returning to God, assuring them of His welcoming nature. Ultimately, the message is about the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents.

"LOST AND FOUND" Intro: In chapter 15 we have three stories which early church Fathers considered as one parable. The purpose of each is to show the natural reaction to finding that which was lost is Joy. That which is lost is the sinner whom Christ came to seek. The elder brother with his jealous attitude reflects the attitude of the Pharisees. I. TAKING FROM THE FATHER. 12,13. A. All the natural resources that we possess came from God. 1. He created us not Satan. a. The eyes, ears, mouth, brain, reproductive system all created by Him. 1. How many today wasting their God given substance on riotous living. a. What are they seeking? b. What are they finding? II. "HE BEGAN TO BE IN WANT." A. There is no satisfactory substitute for God in your life. 1. To leave the fellowship of the Father is to enter a life of frustration 2. You can sublimate that desire for God for periods of time. a. While scheming and planning and dreaming of that new boat and for the first couple of trips on it found It. b. When lost in oblivion and illusions of drugs. 3. What does it mean when a man turns to alcohol? Seeking God. drugs -- seeking God fornication -- seeking God. 4. What does he find? a. Temporary relief of the symptoms. b. "He would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat." c. Jesus said of this world, "If you drink of this water you will thirst again." 1. You can fill your stomach with corn husks, but you'll still be hungry. III. "AND WHEN HE CAME TO HIMSELF." A. That's exactly what Satan is trying to keep you from. 1. Fill you with lies. 2. Keep you so running. 3. Start his egg beater to confuse your brain. B. Stop and think about God's offer to you. 1. eternal life perishing 2. love wrath 3. peace turmoil 4. Joy happiness- sorrow 5. righteousness sin 6. riches poverty C. "Father" - servants have bread enough and to spare." 1. Look at these Christians here. 2. The emptiness and hunger that's killing you. D. When you begin to think about turning to God a haunting fear grips you. Will he receive me?