What actions can we take to seek "the one that went astray"? Setting the Scene: The Shepherd’s Heart (Matthew 18:12-14) “What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he rejoices more over that one sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray. In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish.” Core Actions Jesus Models • NOTICE: The shepherd is aware the sheep is missing. • INITIATE: He leaves the safe majority and goes after the stray. • PERSIST: He searches until he finds. • RESTORE: He brings the sheep back to safety. • REJOICE: He celebrates the recovery publicly. Practical Ways We Can Seek the One Who Went Astray • Keep watch over one another so absence is quickly felt (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Pray by name, asking the Spirit to open hearts (1 Samuel 12:23; Colossians 4:2-3). • Reach out personally—calls, visits, messages—showing genuine concern (James 5:19-20). • Speak truth in love, offering Scripture that corrects and comforts (Ephesians 4:15; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Extend hospitality; invite the person into your home and gatherings (Romans 12:13). • Offer practical help with real‐life burdens (Galatians 6:2). • Involve mature believers when private efforts stall (Matthew 18:15-17). • Protect from further harm by guiding toward accountability and healthy community (Galatians 6:1). • Celebrate every step back, affirming repentance and growth (Luke 15:6-7). Scriptural Reinforcement • Luke 15:4-7—same pursuit, same joy. • Jude 22-23—“save others, snatching them from the fire.” • 1 Peter 3:15—answer with gentleness and respect. • Romans 15:1—bear with the failings of the weak. • 2 Corinthians 5:20—we are ambassadors of reconciliation. Guarding Our Own Hearts While We Seek • Examine motives—seek their good, not personal vindication (Philippians 2:3-4). • Maintain holiness—watch yourself lest you also be tempted (Galatians 6:1). • Depend on the Spirit, not mere persuasion (Zechariah 4:6). • Accept that ultimate results rest with God (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). The Goal: Restoration and Shared Joy When the wanderer returns, heaven rejoices, the church is strengthened, and the Shepherd’s heart is satisfied. Our calling is to mirror His pursuit until every lost sheep is safely home. |
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