What actions can believers take to seek "lost" and "scattered" individuals? The Verse in Focus “I will seek the lost, bring back the strays, bind up the broken, and strengthen the weak; but the sleek and strong I will destroy. I will shepherd them with justice.” (Ezekiel 34:16) God’s Pattern—Our Blueprint • Seek proactively • Bring back relationally • Bind up compassionately • Strengthen intentionally • Shepherd with justice and integrity Practical Actions for Today • Seek the lost – Pray for open doors and boldness (Colossians 4:3) – Enter their spaces—homes, workplaces, online communities (John 4:7-26) – Share the gospel clearly (Romans 1:16) • Bring back the strays – Notice who is missing from fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25) – Call, text, or visit; offer rides or sit with them at church – Walk alongside them as Paul revisited churches (Acts 15:36) • Bind up the broken – Listen to hurts without judgment (Proverbs 18:13) – Pray for healing and comfort (James 5:14-16) – Provide practical help—meals, counseling, financial aid (1 John 3:18) • Strengthen the weak – Feed them Scripture that builds faith (Romans 10:17) – Pair them with mature mentors (2 Timothy 2:2) – Encourage and celebrate progress (1 Thessalonians 5:11) • Shepherd with justice – Defend the vulnerable (Isaiah 1:17) – Correct sin gently and truthfully (Galatians 6:1) – Lead by example, not for gain (1 Peter 5:2-3) Cultivating a Shepherd’s Heart • Stay close to Christ, the Good Shepherd (John 10:11) • Remember each person’s value (Luke 15:4-7) • Rely on the Spirit’s power and guidance (Acts 1:8) Living It Out Together • Make “missing-person ministry” part of church culture • Review attendance or small-group lists and follow up quickly • Combine gospel proclamation with tangible acts of love in outreach events • Celebrate every story of the lost being found—heaven does (Luke 15:10) |
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