The Mission of the Son of Man

Sermon: The Mission of the Son of Man

Scripture Reference: Luke 19:10 – “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

Introduction

The words of Jesus in Luke 19:10 encapsulate the heart of His mission on earth. This verse follows the story of Zacchaeus, a man who was despised for his position as a tax collector but whose life was radically transformed by an encounter with Christ. In these few words, Jesus reveals not only His purpose but also the nature of God’s love and grace.

1. The Identity of the Son of Man

The title "Son of Man" is deeply significant:

Messianic Role: This title emphasizes both the humanity and divinity of Jesus. He is the bridge between heaven and earth. Fulfillment of Prophecy: The term echoes Daniel 7:13-14, where the Son of Man is presented as the eternal King with dominion and glory. Relatability: Jesus identifies with humanity in its frailty, showing He came to walk among us, experience our struggles, and offer redemption.

2. The Mission: To Seek and to Save

Jesus’ mission has two dimensions:

Seeking:

The act of seeking shows intentionality. Jesus actively pursued the lost. Whether it was Zacchaeus in the sycamore tree, the Samaritan woman at the well, or the prodigal son, Jesus went to great lengths to find those in need of Him. This reveals a God who is not passive but actively engaged in the restoration of His creation. Application: Are we aware that God seeks us even when we feel unworthy or far from Him?

Saving:

Salvation is the ultimate goal. Jesus didn’t just find the lost; He delivered them from their spiritual brokenness, offering forgiveness and a new life. The cost of salvation was the cross. Jesus’ death and resurrection made it possible for the lost to be reconciled to God. Application: Have we accepted the salvation Jesus freely offers?

3. The Lost: Who Are They?

The term “lost” carries both spiritual and relational meanings:

Spiritual Separation: The lost are those alienated from God because of sin. Romans 3:23 reminds us that all have sinned and fall short of God’s glory. Relational Distance: The lost are not just those outside the faith but also those who feel disconnected, discouraged, or abandoned. Jesus’ Compassion for the Lost:

He never saw them as hopeless but as valuable. Like the shepherd seeking the one lost sheep, He pursued them with love.

4. What This Means for Us

Recognizing Our Need: Before we can be saved, we must acknowledge that we are lost. Zacchaeus didn’t hide from his brokenness but sought Jesus with a heart of repentance. Joining the Mission: As followers of Christ, we are called to participate in His mission.

Seek: Are we reaching out to the spiritually and emotionally lost around us? Share: Are we proclaiming the message of salvation with boldness and love? Hope for All: No one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Zacchaeus was considered an outcast, yet Jesus called him by name and transformed his life.

Conclusion

Luke 19:10 is a reminder of the boundless love and relentless pursuit of God for His creation. The mission of the Son of Man continues through His Church today. Let us embrace His purpose, recognizing that we were once lost but are now found, and commit to seeking and saving the lost in His name.

Prayer: Father, we thank You for sending Your Son to seek and save the lost. Help us to remember the depths from which You rescued us and to share Your love with those around us. Empower us to live with the same intentionality and compassion that Jesus showed. Amen.