Commitment to Seek and to Save the Lost
Text: Luke 19:1-10
26 February 2006
(I) THE PLIGHT OF THE LOST
(Well exemplified by Zacchaeues)
1. Despised because they are rich and corrupt
2. Shunned by many
3. Given up as unredeemable
“They all complained, saying,
“He has gone to be a guest with a man who is a sinner” Luke 19:7
(II) THE POWER TO SAVE
“The Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which is lost” Luke 19:10
1. Power translated into Purpose
2. Power to overcome prejudices
3. Power to face every kind of criticism
4. Power to stay committed to the task of seeking and saving the lost
(III) THE PROMISE OF SALVATION
“Today, salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham” Luke 19:9
1. Salvation is a gift from God
a) God can redeem anyone… no matter how wicked the person may be
b) Salvation can be offered instantly… “Today”
2. Commendation
a) Worthy to be given salvation
b) Worthy to be called “a son of Abraham”
(IV) THE PRODUCT OF GENUINE SALVATION
“Look Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor;
And if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation,
I restore fourfold” Luke 19:8
1. Regard for the poor
2. Restitution (fourfold)
(V) PROBLEMS WE STILL FACE
1. Prejudice against the sinful
2. Heartlessness against the sinful