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These three parables were told by Jesus to explain his friendship with tax collectors and sinners. They speak of God’s mercy to sinners and imply that it was active in Jesus' ministry.
The parable of the lost sheep (vv.3-7) reflects the imagery of Eze 34:11-16. It proclaims God’s joy over the recovery of the repentant sinner. It also demonstrates God’s initiative in seeking the sinner. There is sarcasm in Jesus' reference to righteous persons who do not need to repent. He was repelled by the self-righteousness of his critics.
The parable of the lost coin has the same message as that of the lost sheep (vv.8-10). The woman’s coin was precious to her for more than its monetary value: it may have been part of the dowry of coins that she wore on her headdress. It is noteworthy that this parable uses the action of a woman to represent the activity of God.
The parable of the lost or prodigal son (vv.11-32) is really about two sons. The first is a spectacular sinner, whose sins are newsworthy. The parable tells of God’s readiness to welcome such people as children, even when they have no merits to plead. The robe given by the father is a mark of honor and the shoes symbolize liberty. John Wesley (Notes, 263), elaborates even further: “He arrays him with the robe of a Redeemer’s righteousness, with inward and outward holiness, adorns him with all sanctifying graces, and honours him with the tokens of adopting love.”
The second son is a self-righteous, law-abiding person, like Jesus' critics. And Jesus may well have told the parable primarily as a challenge to such people. The parable is a story without an ending. Although the younger son has been received into the house, the elder son stands outside complaining. It is not clear whether he accepts or rejects his father’s invitation to step inside. But it is clear that the father extends the same love and mercy to both his sons.
The central theme of this chapter is God’s mercy to sinners, whoever they may be. It is reflected in Charles Wesley’s words (1:92):
Outcasts of men, to you I call,
Harlots, and publicans, and thieves!
He spreads His arms to embrace you all;
Sinners alone His grace receives;
No need of Him the righteous have,
He came the lost to seek and save.