Embracing Our Worth as Jesus' Lost Sheep

Devotional

Day 1: Jesus as the Good Shepherd

Jesus embodies God's character and intentions, showing us how to live in response to God's revelation. He is relentless in His pursuit of us, His lost sheep, and finds joy in our return. This teaches us about God's unwavering love and commitment to us. Jesus' role as the Good Shepherd is not just a comforting image but a profound truth about His dedication to our well-being. He knows each of us intimately, understands our needs, and is always ready to guide, protect, and rescue us. His joy in finding and bringing back the lost sheep reflects the immense value He places on every individual.

In a world where we often feel insignificant or overlooked, it's crucial to remember that Jesus sees us, knows us, and loves us deeply. His pursuit is not out of obligation but out of genuine love and joy. This understanding should transform how we view ourselves and others, recognizing that we are all precious in His sight. [32:31]

Ezekiel 34:11-12 (ESV): "For thus says the Lord God: Behold, I, I myself will search for my sheep and will seek them out. As a shepherd seeks out his flock when he is among his sheep that have been scattered, so will I seek out my sheep, and I will rescue them from all places where they have been scattered on a day of clouds and thick darkness."

Reflection: Think of a time when you felt lost or overlooked. How does knowing that Jesus, the Good Shepherd, is relentlessly pursuing you change your perspective on that experience?

Day 2: Value Beyond Current State

We should not assess someone's value based on their current location or position. Jesus sees us as His lost sheep, not as defective or too far gone. This perspective challenges us to see the inherent worth in every person, regardless of their circumstances. Society often labels people based on their mistakes, failures, or current struggles, but Jesus looks beyond these and sees the potential and worth in each individual. His love is not conditional on our performance or status but is rooted in our inherent value as God's creation.

This understanding should transform how we interact with others. Instead of judging or dismissing people based on their current state, we are called to see them through the eyes of Jesus, recognizing their worth and potential. This perspective can lead to more compassionate and grace-filled relationships, where we support and uplift each other rather than condemn or criticize. [53:10]

1 Samuel 16:7 (ESV): "But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.'"

Reflection: Think of someone in your life who is struggling or has made mistakes. How can you show them their inherent worth and value through your actions and words today?

Day 3: Cost of Discipleship

Following Jesus requires prioritizing Him above all else, even our closest relationships. This commitment might cause tension and require us to leave behind old traditions or beliefs, but it leads to true fulfillment and purpose. Discipleship is not a casual commitment but a radical reorientation of our lives around Jesus. It means placing Him at the center of our decisions, relationships, and priorities, even when it is challenging or counter-cultural.

This path of discipleship may involve sacrifices and difficult choices, but it is also the path to true life and purpose. Jesus calls us to take up our cross and follow Him, promising that in losing our lives for His sake, we will find true life. This commitment is not about legalism or earning God's favor but about responding to His love and grace with wholehearted devotion. [42:18]

Luke 14:26-27 (ESV): "If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from surrendering to Jesus? What would surrendering this area to Him actually look like in terms of daily habits?

Day 4: Joy in the Rescue

Jesus doesn't resent the work involved in rescuing us. He joyfully carries us, no matter how burdened or broken we are. This joy extends to heaven, where there is more rejoicing over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. The image of Jesus joyfully carrying the lost sheep on His shoulders is a powerful reminder of His love and grace. He does not rescue us begrudgingly or out of duty but with great joy and celebration.

This joy in the rescue reflects the heart of God, who delights in bringing His children back into relationship with Him. It also challenges us to share in this joy and to celebrate the redemption and restoration of others. Instead of focusing on their past mistakes or failures, we are called to rejoice in their repentance and new life in Christ. [54:21]

Zephaniah 3:17 (ESV): "The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing."

Reflection: Think of someone who has recently come to faith or returned to the church. How can you join in the celebration of their new life in Christ and support them in their journey?

Day 5: Joining Jesus in His Mission

We are called to love others as Jesus loves us, laying down our lives for our friends and seeking the lost with the same fervor. This involves practical steps like inviting others to church, listening to them, or simply being present in their lives. The ultimate goal is to rejoice with Jesus over every lost sheep that is found. Joining Jesus in His mission means actively participating in His work of redemption and restoration. It means being His hands and feet in the world, showing His love and grace to those around us.

This mission is not just for pastors or missionaries but for every follower of Jesus. We are all called to seek the lost, to love sacrificially, and to share the good news of Jesus with others. This can happen in everyday interactions and relationships, as we intentionally look for opportunities to reflect Jesus' love and grace. [59:17]

Matthew 9:37-38 (ESV): "Then he said to his disciples, 'The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.'"

Reflection: Think of someone in your life who does not know Jesus. What is one practical step you can take this week to show them His love and invite them into a relationship with Him?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

Today, we explored the profound metaphor of Jesus as the Good Shepherd and us as His sheep, focusing on the parable from Luke 15:1-10. We began by acknowledging our need for constant direction, protection, and attention, much like sheep. Jesus, embodying God's character and intentions, shows us how to live in response to God's revelation. The parable of the lost sheep illustrates Jesus' relentless pursuit of us, His lost sheep, and His joy in our return.

We discussed how society often uses the term "sheep" derogatorily, implying ignorance and helplessness. However, Jesus flips this narrative, showing that being a sheep under His care is a position of value and love. The Pharisees, who should have been excited about sinners drawing near to God, instead grumbled and muttered, failing to see the value in those Jesus sought to save. Jesus' parable challenges us to see beyond someone's current state and recognize their inherent worth.

We also delved into the cost of discipleship, emphasizing that following Jesus requires us to prioritize Him above all else, even our closest relationships. This commitment might cause tension and require us to leave behind old traditions or beliefs, but it is a path that leads to true fulfillment and purpose.

The parable teaches us that Jesus doesn't resent the work involved in rescuing us. He joyfully carries us, no matter how burdened or broken we are. This joy extends to heaven, where there is more rejoicing over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.

Finally, we are called to join Jesus in His mission. We are to love others as He loves us, laying down our lives for our friends and seeking the lost with the same fervor. This involves practical steps like inviting others to church, listening to them, or simply being present in their lives. The ultimate goal is to rejoice with Jesus over every lost sheep that is found.

###

Key Takeaways

1. nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. [54:21]
5. Joining Jesus in His Mission: We are called to love others as Jesus loves us, laying down our lives for our friends and seeking the lost with the same fervor. This involves practical steps like inviting others to church, listening to them, or simply being present in their lives. The ultimate goal is to rejoice with Jesus over every lost sheep that is found.

### [54:21]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[30:32] - Opening Remarks
[31:05] - Acknowledging Guest Speakers
[31:46] - Gratitude for Leadership
[32:31] - Series Introduction: Jesus Said
[33:18] - Bible Recap and Prayers
[33:53] - Acting on God's Revelation
[34:31] - The Insult of Being Called Sheep
[36:05] - Shrek the Sheep
[37:26] - Personal Story: Lambie Poof
[38:43] - Jesus' Obsession with Sheep
[39:29] - Parable of the Lost Sheep
[40:10] - Context of Luke 15
[41:05] - Cost of Discipleship
[42:18] - Prioritizing Jesus
[44:20] - Sinners Leaning In
[45:08] - Pharisees' Attitude
[46:43] - Jesus' Association with Sinners
[47:37] - Parable Explanation
[49:26] - God's Heart for the Lost
[50:23] - We Are All Sheep
[51:05] - Isaiah 53:6
[52:21] - How Sheep Get Lost
[53:10] - Value Beyond Location
[54:21] - Joy in the Rescue
[55:02] - The Work of Carrying Lost Sheep
[57:07] - Rejoicing Over the Found
[58:38] - Jesus' Mission
[59:17] - Loving Each Other
[60:42] - Personal Story: Lost Bracelet
[62:33] - Practical Steps to Love
[64:22] - Created for Good Works
[65:21] - Avoid Assigning Value
[66:05] - Jesus Welcomes Sinners
[67:02] - Living the Truth
[67:45] - The Work and Rejoicing
[68:57] - Risk and Investment in Love
[69:32] - Laying Down Your Life
[70:18] - God's Delight in Shepherding
[70:57] - Challenge: Find the One
[72:14] - Imperfectly Loving Others
[73:22] - Encouragement for the Lost
[74:29] - Closing Prayer
[76:01] - Farewell and Challenge

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

In the parable of the lost sheep (Luke 15:1-10), what actions does the shepherd take when he realizes one sheep is missing?
According to Ezekiel 34:15-16, what are the specific actions God promises to take for His sheep?
How does Jesus describe Himself in John 10:11, and what does this imply about His relationship with His followers?
What was the reaction of the Pharisees to Jesus' association with sinners, and how did Jesus address their attitude? [45:42]

Interpretation Questions

Why does Jesus use the metaphor of a shepherd and sheep to describe His relationship with us? What does this tell us about our nature and His care? [50:23]
How does the parable of the lost sheep challenge the way we view and value people who are "lost" or far from God? [52:21]
What does it mean to prioritize Jesus above all else, even our closest relationships, as mentioned in the sermon? How might this look in practical terms? [42:18]
How does the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:7) reflect God's heart for the lost? What does this teach us about the importance of repentance and restoration?

Application Questions

Reflect on a time when you felt lost or far from God. How did you experience His pursuit and care during that period? [51:43]
The sermon mentioned that following Jesus might cause tension and require leaving behind old traditions or beliefs. Have you experienced this in your life? How did you navigate those challenges? [42:57]
Jesus calls us to love others as He loves us, even laying down our lives for our friends. What practical steps can you take this week to show sacrificial love to someone in your life? [59:17]
The Pharisees failed to see the value in the sinners Jesus sought to save. How can you cultivate a perspective that sees the inherent worth in every person, regardless of their current state? [53:10]
The sermon emphasized the joy in rescuing the lost. Think of someone in your life who might be spiritually lost. What specific actions can you take to reach out to them and share God's love? [01:10:57]
Jesus doesn't resent the work involved in rescuing us. How can you adopt a similar attitude of joy and commitment in serving others, even when it is difficult or inconvenient? [54:21]
The sermon challenged us to ask God to show us the one person He is after in our lives. Spend some time in prayer this week asking God to reveal that person to you. How will you begin to reach out to them? [01:11:37]

Sermon Clips

1. "I preached a few weeks ago. And one of my points I kind of want to bring back up is that to follow Jesus, we don't have to know everything there is to know about God and his plan. But we are responsible for acting on what he has revealed to us. And doing the things that he has already told us to do." [33:53] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "Jesus is saying, I'm first. some of you in this room are actually kind of living that. You've had to make a decision to follow Jesus and it's caused some tension in your family. Some of you had to leave some traditions that you grew up with, even faith traditions that you grew up with. And when you had an encounter with Jesus, you realized, to follow Jesus, you'd have to make a break from those old traditions." [42:18] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Jesus is showing us his heart. He is the shepherd who's earnestly, wholeheartedly going after us until we're found. So, joyfully, he puts us on his shoulders. He puts this lost sheep joyfully on his shoulders. He's not put out. He's not angry. He's not annoyed. He's not muttering. He joyfully puts the sheep on his shoulders." [54:21] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "Lost sheep are work, but if you love something, you'll do the work. And Jesus did the work. He does the work. And I know, so we're talking about sheep. And I know you probably say, I've seen those pictures or those paintings of Jesus or a shepherd with a little lamb on their shoulder. You know, he's a cute little, perfect little lamb. And I mean, yeah, that would be pretty easy to carry, you know." [55:02] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "We can't assess someone's value by their current location or position because Jesus doesn't. Amen? Amen. I'm so glad he doesn't. I'd say that we shouldn't even, you know, sometimes we can apply things to other people and it's harder to apply it to ourselves. But I would say we shouldn't assess our own value that same way. We shouldn't assess our value by our current location or position." [53:10] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "The benefit of being found by God, being a Christian, is not just for us to be in a better place. It's not to be a better version of ourselves. Even just to stop sinning. I think for some of us, our Christianity just consists of not sinning. But we're made for more than that. Ephesians says this, For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." [01:04:22] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "Lost people are work. But you'll work for what you love. Jesus did the work for us. And Jesus calls us to do his work with him. And it requires work, no doubt. you know, when we hear something like this, a lot of times we get fixated on the work part. But there's rejoicing. I think God's more about the rejoicing part. He wants to get to the rejoicing part." [01:07:45] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "Loving people involves risk. It involves connection. It involves investment. But what that means is that you could get hurt. And what that means is that it could be uncomfortable. And you might even get rejected. You could get rejected by family, by friends. But that's where the laying down your life comes in. We admire the concept of like, greater love has no person than this, that he laid down his life for his friend, right?" [01:08:57] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "When we weren't God's friend yet, Jesus died for us. When we didn't care a thing about it, Jesus died for us. Romans 5, 8 says this, but God demonstrates his own love for us in this. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. And so, that brings me to my final, final point of the day, is that the Lord delights in being our shepherd." [01:09:32] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "Jesus isn't the good shepherd because we asked him to be a good shepherd. He didn't rescue us because we even knew we needed it. Saving us wasn't our idea, it was his. Creating us, loving us, caring for us, bearing with us, carrying us, cleaning us up, healing us, doing good things for us, blessing us, even rejoicing over us. That wasn't our idea, it was his. And he delights to do it. He loves to do it, because he loves us." [01:10:18] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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