LOST                                                                                       EAST BAY FELLOWSHIP

(Series, #4)                                                                                           September 24, 2006

GOD’S PASSION FOR THE LOST

TEXT: Luke 15:1-31

INTRODUCTION

· The search and rescue team’s motto is: “This we do so others may live.”

· Try to help those who argue against you. Be merciful to those who doubt. Save some by snatching them as from the very flames of hell itself. And as for others, help them to find the Lord by being kind to them…   Jude 1:22-23 (TLB)

1) THE VIEW OF THE LOST

· The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.   2 Cor 4:4 (NIV)

2) THE VIEW OF THE FOUND

· Jesus was seeking to communicate two very important things in the first two parables of this chapter in Luke:

      a) The relationship between us and what is lost

      b) The value of what is lost.

3) THE VIEW OF THE LORD

· Jesus speaks of a father rather than a master…because he’s revealing the heart of God rather than a kingdom principle.

CONCLUSION

· The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.   2 Pet 3:9 (NIV)