Lost and Found: Experiencing the Shepherd’s Love in Christ

Scripture Reference

Luke 15:1–7

"Then all the tax collectors and sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, 'This man receives sinners and eats with them.' … 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?"

Introduction

This sermon explores the heart of Christ toward the lost. Using the parable of the lost sheep, we learn that God's love seeks the lost with intentionality, grace, and joy. Just as a shepherd carries a lost sheep, Christ carries us into salvation, demonstrating that our value is rooted in His sacrifice, not our works.

Key Themes

• God's Love for the Lost: Heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents more than ninety-nine who need no repentance.
• Authentic Witness: True Christians draw the lost through love, not condemnation.
• Keeping Count: The Good Shepherd notices every detail of our lives, guiding and caring for us personally.
• Inability of the Lost to Save Themselves: Just as a sheep cannot find the shepherd alone, humans cannot find God without His pursuit.
• Salvation is by Grace: We are saved by Christ’s work, not our own efforts. The shepherd carries us entirely into the fold.

Sermon Outline

I. Christ Values the Lost

• Scripture: Luke 15:4–7
• Key Point: Heaven grieves the loss of even one sinner.
• Application: Understand your value because Jesus paid the ultimate price for your salvation.

II. Authentic Witness Draws the Lost

• Scripture: Luke 15:1–2
• Key Point: True holiness welcomes sinners; sinless life attracts brokenness.
• Application: Reflect Christ’s love and joy in your witness, not just religious rules or appearance.

III. The Good Shepherd Keeps Count

• Scripture: Luke 15:4; Matthew 10:29–31
• Key Point: God notices every detail of our lives and orchestrates provision and protection.
• Application: Trust God’s guidance even when circumstances suggest abandonment.

IV. Sheep Cannot Rescue Themselves

• Scripture: Romans 3:10–12; John 6:44
• Key Point: Humans cannot reach God by themselves; salvation is initiated and completed by Christ.
• Application: Recognize your dependence on Christ for forgiveness, guidance, and eternal life.

V. Salvation is By Grace

• Scripture: Ephesians 2:8–9
• Key Point: Our good works cannot earn salvation; it is fully a gift of God.
• Application: Receive salvation with gratitude, giving all glory to God for His work in your life.

Conclusion

The parable of the lost sheep teaches us that Christ’s love is persistent, personal, and powerful. He seeks the lost, draws them with grace, and rejoices when one sinner returns. Our response is to embrace His salvation, live as authentic witnesses, and share His love with the lost around us. Remember, in Christ, you are never alone, never forgotten, and always valued.

References

• Luke 15:1–7
• John 6:44
• Romans 3:10–12
• Matthew 10:29–31
• Ephesians 2:8–9
• Psalms 56:8
• Hebrews 13:5
• 1 John 4:19
• Desire of Ages, Ellen G. White