The Heart for the Lost
Notes
Transcript
Evangelism
Evangelism
Continuing in our study of evangelism, we come to a passage of Scripture that many love to reference, but we need to look at it more deeply. Last week, we spoke about the Great Commission-our calling to make disciples of all nations. But why is this so important? Why does reaching the lost matter so much to God?
To answer this, Jesus gives us a powerful insight into God’s heart for the lost through the parable of the lost sheep. This parable is more than just an illustration it’s a glimpse into how deeply God loves every lost soul. This parable illustrates God’s great love and relentles pursuit of those who have strayed from Him. It reminds us that every person matters to god, and if even one is missing, He goes after them.
We should have a heart like Jesus for those who are lost-whether they are struggling with sin, doubt, or disconnection from God. This parable should challenge us to actively seek out and love those who feel isolated, overlooked, or distant from the faith community.
Before we examine the parable, let’s first see who Jesus was speaking to and why His message was so radical.
Inclusive Heart of God
1 Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him.
2 And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, “This Man receives sinners and eats with them.”
The first thing we see is that tax collectors and sinners were drawn to Jesus. These were outcasts-the ones society rejected. Tax collectors were hated because they worked for Rome, often cheating their own people. Sinners referred to people with bad reputations-outcasts, prostitutes, and those seen as spiritually unclean. Yet, Jesus welcomed them, much to the frustration of the religious leaders. Jesus didn’t avoid these people-He welcomed them and this outraged the Pharisees! The Pharisees’ grumbling about Jesus eating with sinners isn’t just a social faux pas—they are shocked because Jesus, in their view, should be avoiding these people to maintain holiness.
This shows us God’s inclusive heart. No one is too far gone. No one is beyond His love. Each individual is precious to God, regardless of their social or spiritual status.
In Jewish culture of the first century, sharing a meal was never a casual affair. When Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners, He wasn’t merely being friendly—He was making a profound theological statement. To sit at a table with someone meant:
Acceptance and equality: Those who shared meals were considered equals
Covenant relationship: Breaking bread together symbolized a bond.
Ritual purity concerns: The Pharisees believed that eating with sinners made one ceremonially unclean.
When Jesus chose to eat with those considered “unclean”, He was directly challenging the religious establishment’s understanding of holiness. He demonstrated that true holiness isn’t about separation from sinners, but rather engagement with them for the purpose of redemption.
Challenge question: Do we have biases that keep us from actively loving those whom society often judges or excludes? Who in our lives do we overlook because of their background, struggles, or choices?
Jesus didn’t wait for the lost to clean themselves up—He met them where they were. Are we willing to do the same?
2. Relentless Pursuit
3 So He spoke this parable to them, saying:
4 “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it?
to fully appreciate this parable, we need to understand shepherding in ancient Israel:
Constant vigilance: Shepherds lived with their flocks 24/7 often in harsh conditions.
Personal relationship: Unlike modern ranching, shepherds knew each sheep individually, often giving them names.
Dangerous word: They faced predators, thieves, and treacherous terrain.
Economic significance: Sheep represented livelihood, wealth, and sustenance.
Spiritual symbolism: Israel’s leaders were often called shepherds, and God Himself is the ultimate Shepherd.
A good shepherd doesn’t just care for his sheep from a distance. He is intimately involved in their well-being, ensuring their safety, nourishment, and care.
When a shepherd left the 99 sheep to find one, it wasn’t just sentimentality—it reflected both economic necessity and deep personal commitment. No responsible shepherd could afford to write off even a single animal.
In Jewish culture, shepherds were responsible for every sheep. Losing one was not an option. Sheep are helpless when lost—they can’t find their way back and are vulnerable to predators. The shepherd had to actively search—he didn’t wait for the sheep to return!
Jesus makes it clear-this isn’t a casual search. Teh shepherd doesn’t give up after a brief effort. He relentlessly pursues the lost sheep until he finds it.
This parable doesn’t stand alone—it reflects God’s consistent character throughout the Bible:
In Eden: After Adam and Eve sinned, God’s first response was to seek them Genesis 3:9
9 Then the Lord God called to Adam and said to him, “Where are you?”
With Israel: God repeatedly pursued His wandering people through the prophets, saying Malachi 3:7
7 Yet from the days of your fathers You have gone away from My ordinances And have not kept them. Return to Me, and I will return to you,” Says the Lord of hosts. “But you said, ‘In what way shall we return?’
In the Incarnation: Jesus said- Luke 19:10
10 for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”
In the Church Age: The Holy Spirit continues this pursuit, drawing people to Christ.
God goes to great lengths to recover the lost. Jesus actively searches for those who have strayed. This is evangelism! It’s not just about inviting people to church-it’s about pursuing relationships with those who need god’s love.
This parable isn’t about statistics. It’s about individual worth. God doesn’t see a crowd—He sees you.
Have you ever lost something valuable—a child in a crowd, an important document? Remember the urgency you felt. That’s how God feels about the lost.
Practical Applications: Who in your life has drifted away from faith? Reach out with love and encouragement.
When was the last time you personally invited someone to church?
Are there ministries in our church that help reconnect those who feel distant? How can we get involved? Is there a ministry we need to start for this?
Practical Evangelism Questions:
Who is one person I need to reconnect with this week?
Have I recently invited someone to church?
How can I be more intentional in reaching out to those who feel distant?
Evangelism is more than inviting people to church—it’s building relationships and showing Christ’s love daily.
3. The Lost Trilogy: A Complete Picture of God’s Heart
The parable of the lost sheep is actually the first in a trilogy of parables in Luke 15:
The Lost Sheep (Luke 15:3-7) Representing God’s pursuit of the wanderer
The Lost Coin (Luke 15:8-10) Depicting God’s diligent search for what is precious
The Lost Son (Luke 15:11-32) Illustrating God’s patience and celebration when the lost return.
These three parables together give us a complete picture of God’s heart for the lost.:
Different ways of becoming lost: Some wander away (sheep), some are lost through neglect (coin), some deliberately leave (son).
Different responses: Active searching (sheeping), diligent sweeping (coin), patient waiting (son).
Same conclusion: Joyful celebration in each case.
All three parables ultimately point to the same thing: God’s longing for reconciliation, no matter the reason someone is lost (whether by wandering, neglect, or rebellion.)
By understanding this trilogy, we see that God’s concern for the lost isn’t limited to one type of person or situation. Whether somone has drifted away, been lost through circumstances, or rebelled outright, God’s heart remains the same—He eagerly desires their return.
4. Joyful Restoration
5 And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing.
6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’
7 I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.
Notice the reaction when the lost sheep is found-joy! The shepherd doesn’t scold the sheep, he carries it home and celebrates! Heaven doesn’t just acknowledge repentance—it celebrates it! Repentance isn’t just about guilt—it’s about restoration. How often do we focus on the guilt of repentance, and miss the celebration that is meant to follow? Are we actively celebrating the joy of restoration in others’ lives?
We often celebrate career achievements, sports victories, and personal success—but Jesus says heaven’s greatest joy is a sinner coming home. Are we celbrating what heaven celebrates?
This parable ends with a celebration, showing us that restoring someone to faith brings immense joy to God. Every lost person who returns to God is a reason for rejoicing!
The Trinity in Evangelism
When we engage in evangelism, we’re participating in the work of the entire Trinity:
The Father initiates salvation, drawing people to Himself John 6:44
44 No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day.
The Son made salvation possible through His sacrifice. John 3:16
The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin and leads people to truth John 16:8-13
8 And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
9 of sin, because they do not believe in Me;
10 of righteousness, because I go to My Father and you see Me no more;
11 of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.
12 “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.
13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.
The Holy Spirit is often the unseen force in evangelism-drawing hearts to Christ before we even speak a word. Our efforts only come to fruition because of His active work in the lives of others.
Our evangelistic efforts are most effective when we recognize we’re joining God’s pre-existing work rather than starting something on our own. We’re ambassadors, not originators, of reconciliation.
Personal Reflection: Have you ever felt overjoyed when someone you love made a life-changing decision? That’s how heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents!
The Cost of Pursuing the Lost
The shepherd left the ninety-nine to seek out the one. That was a risk-the sheep left behind were still in the wilderness! Evangelism requires stepping out of our comfort zones.
Sometimes pursuing the lost means:
Having uncomfortable conversations
Showing kindness when it’s inconvenient
Demonstrating patience when change is slow.
Jesus was criticized for eating with sinners. If we truly live out His example, we might face criticism too. But love outweighs judgment and eternity matters more than our reputation. Are we willing to be uncomfortable so that others might be saved?
Addressomg Common Obstacles to Evangelism
Many believers hesitate to share their faith due to common fears:
Fear of rejection— “What if they laugh at me or get angry?”
Biblical response: Jesus faced rejection regularly yet continued His ministry with compassion. He told His disciples John 15:20
20 Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also.
but also to rejoice and be glad when facing opposition.
Jesus was not only rejected but also mocked and crucified for his radical love for the lost. If we are to trul follow Him, we must be willing to endure rejection, knowing that our purpose is greater than our personal comfort.
Practical Approach: Start with relationships where there’s already trust. Remember that rejection of the message isn’t necessarily rejection of you personally.
“I don’t know enough”
“What if they ask questions I can’t answer?”
Biblical Response: The apostles wwere mostly ordinary, uneducated men who simply shared what they had experienced. Peter encourages us 1 Peter 3:15
15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
Practical Approach: You don’t need a seminary degree to share your testimony. Be honest when you don’t know something—offer to find an answer together. Your authenticity will be more compelling than perfect knowledge.
“It’s not my gift”
“Isn’t evangelism just for people with that spiritual gift?”
Biblical Response: While evangelism is a specific gift, sharing the good news is a command for all believers.
Again, evangelism isn’t about convincing someone but about sharing—you don’t have to have all the answers, just an openness to share your experience of God’s love.
Practical Approach: Not everyone will be a Billy Graham, but everyone can invite someone to church, share their story, or build relationships with non-believers. Find ways that fit your personality and gifts.
6. Personal Testimony: The Power of Being Found
One member of our congregation, whom I'll call "Mark," grew up in church but wandered away in college. For fifteen years, he lived completely disconnected from God, building a successful career but feeling increasingly empty inside. His parents never stopped praying for him, and his sister would occasionally invite him to special church events.
What finally broke through wasn't a powerful sermon or a dramatic moment—it was the consistent love of a Christian coworker who invited him to a men's breakfast. At that breakfast, Mark heard another businessman tell a story remarkably similar to his own. That day, something shifted. Two months later, Mark recommitted his life to Christ.
Today, five years later, Mark leads our men's ministry and has helped dozens of other men reconnect with God. When I asked him what made the difference, he said, "Someone came looking for me when I didn't even know I was lost."
This is the power of pursuing the one. Mark's story reflects the joy of heaven over one sinner who repents. And this is a picture of what evangelism looks like in real life: not a dramatic conversion moment, but a journey of consistent love, patience, and invitations to return home.
7. Practical Training: The BLESS Method for Everyday Evanglism
Evangelism doesn’t have to be intimidating. The BLESS method gives us a simple framework that anyone can use:
B-Begin with Prayer
Ask God daily to show you the poeple He wants you to reach. Pray specifically: “Lord, who do you want me to bless today?”
Scripture Foundation: James 5:16
16 Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
L-Listen
Take time to genuinely listen to people’s stories, concerns, and needs withouth immediately trying to “fix” or convert them.
Scripture Foundation: James 1:19
19 So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;
E-Eat
Share meals together. Food creates connection and community, just as Jesus often did ministry around tables.
Scripture Foundation: Luke 7:34
34 The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’
S- Serve
Find practical ways to meet needs and demonstrate Christ’s love through actions.
Scripture Foundation: Matthew 5:16
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
S-Share
When the relationship and opportunity develop, naturally share your story of how Christ has changed your life.
Scripture Foundation: 1 Peter 3:15
15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
The beauty of this method is that it emphasizes relationship over technique, process over pressure, and genuine care over manipulation. Even if you’re naturally shy or reserved, you can begin with prayer and take one step at a time. While this method is an essential tool for reaching the lost, it also helps us grow deeper in our relationships with fellow believers.
8. The Community Dimension of Evangelism
While personal evangelism is essential, the New Testament also shows us a community approach to reaching the lost:
Church-Wide Strategy
In Acts, we see that the early church’s growth wasn’t just about individual efforts-it was the result of the entire community living out their faith together. Their love for one another, their hospitality, and their acts of service created a natural environment for people to encounter God.
Consider how our church might create:
Outreach Events: Not just to attract people, but to genuinely serve the community.
Natural Entry Points: Opportunities where non-Christians can comfortable engage with the church (sports leagues, community service, etc.)
Training Culture: Regular equipping of all members for everyday evangelism.
Supporting On Another
Evangelism was never meant to be a solo activity:
Prayer Partners: Commit to regularly praying for each other's evangelism efforts
Accountability Pairs: Check in on evangelistic goals and experiences
Team Approach: Sometimes inviting someone to an event or home is easier with support
Conclusion: A Vision of What Could Be
Conclusion: A Vision of What Could Be
Imagine what would happen if every person in this room committed to pursuing just one person who is disconnected from God. If each of us identified our "one" and began to prayerfully, intentionally seek them out with God's love.
In one year, our congregation could potentially see dozens of lives transformed by the power of Christ. Families could be healed. Addictions broken. Purpose discovered. Eternity secured.
This isn't just about growing our church—it's about participating in heaven's greatest celebration. Remember what Jesus said: "There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance."
Challenge & Call to Action
This week, I want to challenge you: Ask God to put someone on your heart who needs to be pursued.
Pray for them daily this week
Reach out-send a text, make a call, or invite them to church
Show Christ’s love through your actions
And if you’re here today feeling like the lost sheep know this—God is pursuing you! He hasn’t given up on you, and He never will. If you need to come home, He’s ready to receive you with joy.
As we step out in faith, let us remember that every act of love and invitation is a step closer to the joy of heaven’s celebration.
Let’s be a church that reflects the heart of our Good Shepherd—relentlessly pursuing the lost and rejoicing when they return!
