Welcome Home Week 5: Welcome to the Party | Nathan Hughes

SERMON PODCAST NOTES

Series: Welcome Home
Week 5 Title: Welcome to the Party
Scripture: Luke 15:23–24; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:4–5; Galatians 6:1–2; Matthew 18:20; Romans 5:8; Romans 8:1
Big Idea: God doesn’t just forgive us privately—He restores us publicly.

I. The Weight of Shame

Shame convinces us to hide—just like Adam and Eve.

Shame whispers: “Keep your story quiet. You’re better off in the shadows.”

But the Father’s love breaks down walls of isolation and disconnection.

II. Grace is Unashamed

Luke 15:23–24 — The father didn’t flinch when the son returned filthy from rebellion.

He embraced, kissed, and celebrated him.

Grace doesn’t deny your past—it refuses to be defined by it.

2 Corinthians 5:17 — You are a new creation.

Ephesians 2:4–5 — Made alive in Christ, even when dead in sin.

III. Restoration is Public

Luke 15:24 — The community knew who he was; now they witness who he is.

Restoration happens in community: Galatians 6:1–2.

Matthew 18:20 — God’s presence shows up when we gather.

Healing comes when we share our burdens and stories with others.

IV. The Father Pays in Full

Luke 15:23 — The fattened calf = costly, valuable sacrifice.

Romans 5:8 — Christ died for us while we were still sinners.

2 Corinthians 5:21 — He became sin so we could be righteous.

Romans 8:1 — No condemnation remains.

Story: the father-in-law who always insisted on paying the bill—restoration is costly, but the Father delights to cover it.

V. The Invitation to Celebrate

The Father calls us out of hiding to feast at His table.

Baptism = a public declaration of restoration.

Don’t let shame keep you from the party—the only thing missing is you.