A PASSION FOR LOST SOULS

ROM. 9:1–3; 10:1–4

Introduction.

These passages constitute one of the most remarkable utterances that ever fell from the lips of man—only three other statements comparable to it in the whole Word of God. (a) Moses’ great prayer for the forgiveness of Israel—Ex. 32:29–33 … (b) Jonah when asked to be drowned to save those with whom he sailed—Jonah 1:12 … (c) The Lord Jesus as He faced the cross—John 12:23–28 … Again, on the cross—“Father, forgive them” …

Here is Paul’s prayer, and the expression of his passion for the lost. Note what he actually says … (1) That he has a “great heaviness” … Burning compassion … (2) Also “unceasing sorrow in my heart” … A heart burdened for the lost … (3) “I could wish myself accursed from Christ”—I would give up my salvation, if it could save thee” …

What is the lesson? The message of this amazing statement? What does it teach us? THESE THREE THINGS:

I. ALL OF US OUGHT TO HAVE A GREATER CONCERN FOR THE SALVATION OF THE LOST

1. Salvation is man’s greatest need …

2. Our greatest service and highest privilege …

3. The most neglected obligation of all Christians …

4. Often the least of our cares …

5. Compare Paul’s concern with ours …

6. Jesus said, “As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you” …

II. THIS CONCERN OUGHT TO BE DIRECTED PARTICULARLY TOWARD OUR OWN LOVED ONES ACCORDING TO THE FLESH

1. They are our own, God given loved ones …

2. We owe them supreme concern and supreme prayer and effort …

3. No service we may render others can excuse our failures to win our own …

4. If we give them our best, we will not fail to win them …

III. THIS CONCERN FOR THE SALVATION OF MEN OUGHT TO BECOME THE CHIEF DESIRE OF OUR LIVES—Rom. 10:1–2

1. Because they are LOST …

2. Because they do not know God’s righteousness …

3. Because man’s sincere beliefs and God’s righteousness may differ—Prov. 14:12 …

4. This concern will grow upon us if we will do something about it—Christianity is contagious … (a) Prayers … (b) Letters … (c) Personal witnessing and appeals …

5. When we are concerned, God will make our lives count for good things …

6. God will not fail in winning men …

Conclusion.

1. Without Christ you are LOST—WILL YOU ACCEPT HIM??

2. Will you surrender your life in service??

3. Should you, under God, rededicate your life to HIM??