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SET OUR HEARTS ABLAZE: A Passion for Lost People


Icebreaker:
What is the most valuable thing you have ever lost?
What did you do to try and find the lost item?

Overview:
When our daughter was three, she became lost in a shopping mall. It was a terrifying half-hour as every available person searched the crowded mall for the little girl in green. Finally, the word came over the walkie-talkie that she had been found by a customer at the other end of the mall. We were so grateful to see her again that we did not scold her for running away from the family. Our loving Heavenly Father is waiting with welcoming arms to receive the lost sheep that has wandered away. May we be like that heaven-sent customer years ago and help the lost find their way home. Set our hearts ablaze for lost people.

Discussion:
Read Luke 15:1-7; 19:1-10.

Jesus’ Passion & Purpose

What was Jesus’ purpose on Earth?
How was His approach different from other religious leaders of the day?
How far was He willing to go to fulfill His purpose?

The Power of His Love

Why were people attracted to Jesus?
How did His loving attitude break down defenses?
How does a person’s past create a barrier to salvation today?

Passion and Purpose over Preference and Appearance

As a Christian, what is our purpose on Earth?
What will people think of us if we associate with sinners?
How can we develop a burning passion for the lost?

Prayer:
Make a list of the lost people for whom your group is praying. Pray earnestly for opportunities to lead them to a relationship with Christ. Expect the Holy Spirit to move in their lives. Update your list each week and track the results.

Daily Scripture Reading: “A Passion for Lost People”
Monday, August 19 – It has been said that everyone has a God-shaped hole in their heart. People yearn to have a relationship with their Creator but may not know why. Our purpose is to help them find their way back. Read Jeremiah 50:6: “My people have been lost sheep. Their shepherds have led them astray, turning them away on the mountains. From mountain to hill they have gone. They have forgotten their fold.”

Tuesday, August 20 – There are vast groups of lost people around the world. It can be an overwhelming thought. Before trying to save the world, perhaps we should narrow our focus to our neighborhood or even our family. In the beginning of their ministry, Jesus instructed the disciples to start with their own. Read Matthew 10:5-7. Verse 6: “Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”

Wednesday, August 21 – It is extremely frustrating to lose something but especially so if it is valuable. We will go to ridiculous lengths to find the lost item. God went as far as to sacrifice His only Son in order to seek and save the lost. Read Luke 15:7-9. Verse: 9: “And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’”

Thursday, August 22 – The Lord has sought and found us. Wonderful but let’s not be like the older son who became callous to the lost condition of his brother. We should have a passion to see the lost returned to their Father before it is too late. Read Luke 15:11-32. Verse 32: “It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.”

Friday, August 23 – Jesus has returned to His Father but has sent the Holy Spirit to continue the work of seeking and saving the lost. Jesus cares about everyone. His desire is that no one should be lost. Read John 17:11-13. Verse 12: “While I was with them, I kept them in Your name, which You have given Me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled.”

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