“For the Saints and Sinners” is a video from Colonial Church STA that focuses on the importance of Jesus in our lives. The speaker expresses gratitude for the opportunity to bring the word and also honors the pastors of the church. The message revolves around a passage from Luke chapter 15, where Jesus spends time with tax collectors and sinners, leading to complaints from the Pharisees and teachers of the law. Jesus tells a story about a lost sheep to emphasize his point, highlighting the urgency and pursuit of Jesus. The video encourages listeners to say “yes” to Jesus and start a personal relationship with Him, offering a free gift of a new believer’s Bible for those who make the decision to follow Jesus.
Honoring the Pastors and the Church
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to bring the word
As a congregation member, it is important to take a moment and express our deep gratitude for the pastors who lead and guide our church. Their dedication, wisdom, and commitment have been instrumental in shaping our faith and nurturing our spiritual growth. We are truly blessed to have pastors who are not only knowledgeable in the scriptures but also passionate about spreading the love of Jesus to the world. Their tireless efforts in preparing and delivering sermons week after week deserve our utmost appreciation.
Acknowledging the pastors’ role in the church
The role of pastors within the church cannot be overstated. They serve as spiritual leaders, counselors, and mentors, walking alongside us in our journey of faith. They provide guidance and direction, helping us navigate the complexities of life with the wisdom and insight derived from their deep understanding of God’s word. Our pastors selflessly dedicate their time and energy to ensure that the church remains a safe and nurturing environment for everyone. Their commitment to fostering a strong community of believers allows us to grow together in our faith and support one another through life’s challenges.
The Passage and Context
Jesus spending time with tax collectors and sinners
In the passage we are exploring, we witness Jesus spending time with tax collectors and sinners, a group of people traditionally considered outcasts and undesirable members of society. This action alone shows us Jesus’ incredible love and compassion for all people, regardless of their background or reputation. Jesus wasn’t afraid to associate with those who were viewed as sinners, and this challenges us to reflect on our own attitudes towards those who may be considered outcasts by society.
Complaints from the Pharisees and teachers of the law
Naturally, the religious leaders of the time, the Pharisees, and teachers of the law, were appalled by Jesus’ actions. They couldn’t believe that someone claiming to be the Messiah would willingly associate with those they deemed unworthy. They believed that Jesus’ actions were tarnishing their religious image and undermining their authority. This confrontation highlights the clash between legalistic religious practices and the revolutionary love and grace that Jesus embodied.
Jesus telling a story about a lost sheep to illustrate his point
To further illustrate the heart of God towards sinners, Jesus tells a parable about a lost sheep. In this story, a shepherd has a flock of 100 sheep, and one of them goes astray. Despite having 99 other sheep safely in his care, the shepherd leaves them behind to search for the one that is lost. This parable portrays the relentless pursuit of Jesus towards the lost, emphasizing God’s unwavering love and desire to bring every person back into His fold.
The Message: “For the Saints and Sinners”
Emphasizing the urgency and pursuit of Jesus
The message conveyed through this passage and the parable of the lost sheep is of utmost importance to both saints and sinners alike. It shines a light on the urgency of our relationship with Jesus and the pursuit He undertakes to bring us back when we stray. In the parable, Jesus clearly demonstrates that He is willing to go to great lengths, even leaving the 99 righteous who are in no immediate danger, to rescue the one that is lost.
Sharing a personal story about proposing to his girlfriend
To help us understand the significance of urgency and pursuit, let me share a personal story. A few years ago, I was preparing to propose to my girlfriend. I meticulously planned every detail, from choosing the perfect location to picking out the most beautiful ring. But the most important aspect was the element of surprise. I wanted to catch her off guard and make that moment unforgettable.
Highlighting the importance of urgency and pursuit in our relationship with God
Just as I pursued my girlfriend with a sense of urgency and determination, our relationship with God requires the same level of commitment. Jesus’ pursuit of that one lost sheep exemplifies the urgency with which we should approach our relationship with Him. It is not enough to simply attend church on Sundays and go through the motions of religious practices. Rather, embracing our faith means actively pursuing a deep and intimate connection with Jesus, seeking His guidance and direction in every aspect of our lives.
Jesus explaining a parable to tax collectors and notorious sinners
In the context of this passage, Jesus explains the parable of the lost sheep directly to the tax collectors and notorious sinners who were listening. These individuals were considered the outcasts of society, judged and rejected by the religious elite. Jesus used this parable to communicate His unwavering love and acceptance towards them, defying the social norms and religious expectations of the time. This message would have undoubtedly resonated deeply with those who often felt alienated, offering them hope and a sense of belonging.
The judgment and aggravation of the Pharisees and scribes
The impact of Jesus’ parable was not limited to the tax collectors and notorious sinners present at the time. It also caused great irritation and judgment among the Pharisees and scribes. They were upset that Jesus would devote His attention to those they deemed unworthy of His love and salvation. This reaction offers us a lesson in humility and reminds us of our responsibility to love and reach out to all people, regardless of their past or present circumstances.
Impact of the parable on both the intended audience and eavesdroppers
While the parable was directly shared with the tax collectors and notorious sinners, the impact of its message extended beyond those present. Eavesdroppers, or those who overheard the parable being told, would have been left to contemplate the significance of Jesus’ message for themselves. The parable forced them to consider their own standing before God, challenging them to reevaluate their understanding of who God is and how He views sinners.
Highlighting God’s inclusivity in the parable
One of the central messages highlighted by the parable of the lost sheep is the inclusive nature of God’s love. It reminds us that no matter how far we may wander or how lost we may feel, God’s pursuit of us is relentless. He seeks after every single one of us, regardless of our past mistakes or current struggles. We are all equally valuable and cherished in His sight, and He longs for our return.
Emphasizing the relationship between a shepherd and his sheep
The parable beautifully portrays the relationship between a shepherd and his sheep. The shepherd’s care, concern, and determination to find the lost sheep reflects God’s heart towards each one of us. He knows us intimately, and He desires to restore us to a place of safety, love, and belonging. Just as a shepherd tenderly cares for and protects his flock, so our heavenly Father guides and guards us, never giving up on us, even when we stray.
Significance of pursuing the one over the 99
The parable reminds us of the significance of pursuing the one over the 99. While the shepherd had the majority of his flock safely in his care, he still chose to leave them behind temporarily to search for the one that was lost. This speaks volumes about God’s heart for lost souls. He values each and every individual and desires for us all to experience the fullness of His love and grace. His pursuit of the one is a reflection of His deep desire for our restoration and redemption.
The parable of the lost sheep and its representation of God’s pursuit and care
In this parable, the lost sheep represents us, the sinners who have gone astray. It powerfully depicts God’s pursuit and care for each one of us individually. Just as the shepherd tirelessly searches for his lost sheep, God actively seeks after us, longing for our return to Him. Even in our darkest moments, when we feel overwhelmed by guilt or shame, God’s love never wavers. He is always ready to extend His mercy and forgiveness to those who are willing to turn back to Him.
God’s Pursuit of the Lost
Describing God as the shepherd actively searching and pursuing the lost
When we contemplate the meaning behind the parable of the lost sheep, we see God portrayed as the shepherd who actively searches and pursues the lost. It is essential to recognize that God does not passively wait for us to find our way back to Him. Rather, He actively seeks us out, going to great lengths to bring us back into a restored relationship with Him. His love and mercy are unending, even when we have strayed far from His path.
Emphasizing God’s mercy and desire to seek and save the lost
The story of the lost sheep emphasizes God’s incredible mercy and His earnest desire to seek and save the lost. In His unwavering love for humanity, God extends boundless grace and forgiveness to those who turn to Him. He does not condemn or reject us based on our past mistakes or sinful nature. Instead, He embraces us with open arms, ready to restore us to a place of wholeness and purpose.
Drawing parallels to the story of Adam and Eve in Genesis
To further understand God’s pursuit of the lost, we can draw parallels to the story of Adam and Eve in the book of Genesis. After Adam and Eve sinned, they attempted to hide from God, but He went searching for them in the garden. This same pursuit continues today. God longs for each one of us to know Him intimately and personally, just as He desired a relationship with Adam and Eve.
Calling believers to participate in God’s rescue mission
As believers, we have a responsibility to participate in God’s ongoing rescue mission. We are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, actively seeking out those who are lost and sharing the good news of His love and salvation. Just as God pursued us, He desires for us to pursue others with His relentless love, inviting them into a relationship with Him and pointing them towards eternal life.
The command in Matthew 28 to go, make disciples, baptize, and teach about Jesus
In Matthew 28, Jesus leaves us with a clear command to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” This Great Commission serves as a reminder of our purpose as believers. We are called to actively engage in sharing the love and message of Jesus with the world, consistently and intentionally seeking to bring others into a relationship with Him.
The power of sharing personal testimonies and experiences
One of the most powerful ways we can participate in God’s rescue mission is through sharing our personal testimonies and experiences. When we authentically share how God has pursued and transformed our lives, it can have a profound impact on those who are still lost. Hearing stories of redemption and grace can spark hope in the hearts of others, encouraging them to take a step towards seeking God for themselves.
The significance of the painting “Missionaries Adventurers”
A perfect representation of God’s pursuit of the lost can be found in the renowned painting “Missionaries Adventurers.” This artwork beautifully captures the image of a missionary rescuing a lost person from the depths of despair, symbolizing God’s relentless pursuit of each individual. The painting serves as a visual reminder of the urgency with which we should approach our mission of sharing the love and salvation of Jesus with others.
No One Is Too Far Gone
Experiencing God’s love and forgiveness through coming to church
A powerful way to experience God’s love and forgiveness is by regularly attending church. Church provides a community of believers who offer support, encouragement, and accountability. It is a place where we are reminded of God’s unconditional love and His desire to restore and redeem us. Through worship, teaching, and fellowship, we can encounter God’s presence and experience His transformative power.
The transformation and commitment that can occur through encountering God
When we encounter God, our lives are transformed in remarkable ways. His love has the power to break chains and set us free from the bondage of sin. Through His grace and forgiveness, we can find healing for our brokenness and restoration for our souls. The commitment that arises from encountering God is a natural response to His overwhelming love and the desire to live in alignment with His will.
The unbreakable love of Christ
One of the most profound truths we can hold onto is the unbreakable love of Christ. In all circumstances and regardless of our past, present, or future, Jesus’ love for us remains constant. His love is not dependent upon our actions, but rather flows from His very nature. It is this love that sustains us during challenging times and gives us the strength to persevere.
God’s love remaining constant regardless of challenges or circumstances
Regardless of the challenges or circumstances we may face, we can find solace in the fact that God’s love for us never wavers. This truth is beautifully illustrated in the parable of the lost sheep. The shepherd did not give up on the lost sheep despite the difficulties the search may have presented. Likewise, God’s love remains steadfast, guiding us through the darkest valleys and leading us back to Him.
Personal experience of sharing faith at the airport
Allow me to share a personal experience that highlights the unbreakable love of Christ. I once found myself at an airport with a few hours to spare before my flight. As I sat alone, waiting, I struck up a conversation with a fellow traveler. Through the course of our conversation, I felt compelled to share my faith and the love of Jesus with him. Although initially hesitant, I took a step of faith and spoke openly about my relationship with Jesus.
Encouragement to say “yes” to Jesus and start a personal relationship
I share this story to encourage you to say “yes” to Jesus and start a personal relationship with Him. It is never too late to turn to Jesus and experience the unending love and grace He offers. Just as the lost sheep was welcomed back into the fold, so too can we find restoration, forgiveness, and purpose when we respond to the invitation of Jesus.
Offering a free gift of a new believer’s Bible
To support you in your journey of faith, we would like to offer you a free gift of a new believer’s Bible. This resource contains helpful explanations, insights, and practical guidance to aid you as you begin your walk with Jesus. Please feel free to reach out to our pastors or church leaders if you would like to receive this gift or if you have any questions along the way.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the parable of the lost sheep teaches us about God’s unwavering pursuit of the lost. It emphasizes the urgency and pursuit we should cultivate in our relationship with Jesus. Just as the shepherd tirelessly searches for the one lost sheep, God actively seeks after us, desiring to bring us into a restored relationship with Him.
As believers, we are called to participate in God’s rescue mission, reaching out to those who are lost and sharing the love and salvation of Jesus. By sharing our personal testimonies and experiences, we have the opportunity to impact lives and bring hope to others.
No one is ever too far gone to experience God’s love and forgiveness. Through encountering God, we can find transformation and commitment, knowing that His love remains constant regardless of the challenges or circumstances we face. Let us embrace the unbreakable love of Christ and say “yes” to Jesus, starting a personal relationship that will bring us into a place of wholeness and purpose.
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