“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:10, KJV)

ABSTRACT

This article explores the parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin from Luke 15, highlighting God’s relentless pursuit, the joy of restoration, and the infinite value of every soul. Through scriptural analysis, insights from Ellen G. White, and personal reflections, it calls readers to reflect God’s love by seeking the lost and celebrating their return.

THE LOST FOUND IN DIVINE ARMS!

Have you ever felt lost—in a sea of uncertainty, wondering if anyone cared enough to find you? The parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin in Luke 15:1-10 offer reassurance that God never abandons us. Luke 15:1-10 (KJV) “Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. And he spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it? And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.
They capture the heart of God’s redemptive love. God seeks us relentlessly, like a shepherd scouring the wilderness or a woman searching for a treasured coin. They reveal a God who actively seeks the lost, demonstrating relentless compassion. These stories reflect the universal human condition—we all, at some point, feel spiritually disconnected, uncertain, or unworthy of divine attention. This truth transformed my perspective, bringing joy and hope. It also raises a profound question for readers: Do we see ourselves as the lost sheep? And do we extend the same grace Christ offers to others who are spiritually lost? Before I came to know Christ as my personal Savior, I, too, felt lost. My Catholic upbringing taught me to rely on Saints and Mary as intercessors, leaving me with a sense of distance from God. I believed He was too busy running the world to notice me. This belief left me feeling distant, isolated, and spiritually abandoned. It wasn’t until I discovered that God Himself calls each of us individually that my understanding of His love changed. When I realized He was actively pursuing me, I felt an overwhelming joy and relief. Luke 15:1-2 emphasizes that Jesus welcomed sinners and ate with them, illustrating His willingness to meet people where they are. Sr. White supports this theme in Christ’s Object Lessons: “If there had been but one lost soul, Christ would have died for that one” (p. 187). God pursues every individual with unwavering determination. Ezekiel 34:16 affirms this, “I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment.” Romans 5:8 echoes the depth of this pursuit, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Ellen G. White elaborates on this divine initiative: “The parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son, bring out in distinct lines God’s pitying love for those who are straying from Him. Although they have turned away from God, He does not leave them in their misery. He is full of kindness and tender pity toward all who are exposed to the temptations of the artful foe” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 198, 1900). She further explains: “In the parable of the lost sheep, Christ teaches that salvation does not come through our seeking after God but through God’s seeking after us” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 189, 1900). Let’s explore the themes of divine pursuit, restoration, and the immeasurable worth of a soul, weaving together Scripture, Sr. White’s insights, and my journey. How does this divine pursuit manifest in our daily lives?

SHEPHERD’S DARING QUEST BEGINS!

The parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15:4 illustrates God’s tireless pursuit of each soul. The shepherd does not passively wait for the sheep to return; instead, he braves darkness, rough terrain, and danger to rescue it. This mirrors Christ’s pursuit of humanity, leaving the safety of heaven to redeem us. In Luke 15:4, Jesus tells the story of a shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep to search for one that is lost. Sr. White emphasizes this divine determination in Christ’s Object Lessons “The darker and more tempestuous the night, and the more perilous the way, the greater is the shepherd’s anxiety, and the more earnest his search” (p. 188). She reflects on this, emphasizing that the shepherd does not wait for the sheep to return but braves danger and darkness to bring it back. This illustrates Christ’s unrelenting love for humanity, even for one lost soul. God’s pursuit drives Him to seek even in the most challenging circumstances. Jeremiah 31:3 confirms this, “The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” 2 Peter 3:9 further illustrates, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” Ellen G. White highlights this relentless search: “All the paternal love which has come down from generation to generation through the channel of human hearts, all the springs of tenderness which have opened in the souls of men, are but as a tiny rill to the boundless ocean when compared with the infinite, exhaustless love of God” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 71, 1896). She adds: “God is the source of life and light and joy to the universe. Like rays of light from the sun, like the streams of living water bursting from a living spring, blessings flow out from Him to all His creatures. And wherever the life of God is in the hearts of men, it will flow out to others in love and blessing” (Steps to Christ, p. 77, 1892). Are we reflecting Christ’s heart by seeking the lost? This truth resonates deeply with my own experience. I recall feeling lost and unsure of God’s presence. I vividly remember feeling spiritually adrift, much like that lost sheep. My sense of isolation was profound—I believed God had more important concerns than me. But God’s pursuit became evident through the people He placed in my life—my uncle, who gave me my first Bible study on the second angel’s message while battling cancer, and my high school friends, who became pillars of faith for me. I began to see that God was actively preparing me for something greater. These moments were no coincidence; they were the voice of the Shepherd calling me home. They were intentional acts of God seeking me. Isaiah 53:5-6 affirms this pursuit, “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way.” Christ’s sacrifice was the ultimate demonstration of love. Sr. White echoes this: “For our redemption, heaven itself was imperiled” (p. 196). God used me to share His Word showing that He often works through us to pursue the lost. I have had the privilege of sharing the Bible with a coworker who had questions about faith and with a friend struggling with addiction. In both cases, it wasn’t my efforts but God’s work through me that led them to Him. These experiences reminded me that we are called to be God’s instruments, reaching out to those who feel forgotten. How can we embody this pursuit in our interactions with others?

JOY ERUPTS IN HEAVEN’S HALLS!

The shepherd’s joy in Luke 15:5-6 demonstrates the overwhelming celebration that accompanies restoration. When the shepherd finds the lost sheep, he lifts it onto his shoulders and rejoices. When the lost sheep is found, the shepherd doesn’t scold or punish it—he tenderly carries it home. This tenderness illustrates the grace God extends to every sinner. Sr. White expands on this image “With rejoicing he bears it back to the fold. His gratitude finds expression in melodious songs of rejoicing” (p. 189). She describes heaven’s joy when even one sinner repents, noting, “Heaven itself was imperiled for our redemption” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 196). Restoration brings divine rejoicing that echoes throughout heaven. Zephaniah 3:17 captures this, “The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.” Psalm 147:3 supports the healing aspect, “He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” Ellen G. White describes this transformative joy: “The love which Christ diffuses through the whole being is a vitalizing power. Every vital part—the brain, the heart, the nerves—it touches with healing. By it the highest energies of the being are roused to activity. It frees the soul from the guilt and sorrow, the anxiety and care, that crush the life-forces. With it come serenity and composure. It implants in the soul joy that nothing earthly can destroy—joy in the Holy Spirit—health-giving, life-giving joy” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 115, 1905). She further notes: “Christ was treated as we deserve that we may be treated as He deserves. He was condemned for our sins, in which He had no share, that we might be justified by His righteousness, in which we had no share. He suffered the death which was ours, that we might receive the life which was His. ‘By His stripes we are healed” (The Desire of Ages, p. 25, 1898). As a church, do we celebrate restoration as fervently as heaven does? Do practices meant to uphold standards risk alienating those God longs to redeem? As I have observed, do we sometimes fall short, especially with practices like disfellowship? Does disfellowship achieve restoration or simply reinforce separation? I experienced this joy firsthand when I returned to the church after 15 years away following my divorce. At my lowest, a sister reached out, inviting me back. I was hesitant but soon realized that God had been preparing me all along. My initial hesitation was met with God’s gentle reassurance and blessings. After my baptism, I felt an outpouring of blessings and peace. Following my baptism, I felt restored and encouraged by the church community’s support. It reminded me that God’s love never wavers, even when we stray. Luke 15:7 highlights heaven’s response: “I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth.” Sr. White confirms this perspective: “The joy of Christ in the recovery of the lost is illustrated by the rejoicing of the shepherd” (p. 189). Sr. White reminds us: “We must bear patiently with the ignorance, perversity, and waywardness of others” (p. 197). This counsel challenges us to balance accountability with grace, ensuring restoration remains our focus. What steps can we take to foster such joyous restorations in our communities?

EVERY SOUL A PRICELESS GEM!

The parable of the lost coin (Luke 15:8-9) offers another powerful metaphor. Here, the woman’s diligent search represents God’s tireless effort to recover every lost soul. Sr. White draws attention to the profound value Christ places on humanity: “By the lost sheep Christ represents not only the individual sinner, but the one world that has apostatized” (p. 190). Just as the woman searches diligently, God pursues each soul with infinite care. Sr. White writes that Christ laid aside His heavenly glory to rescue our fallen world (Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 190-191). Each person holds immense value in God’s eyes, prompting His diligent search. Psalm 49:8 underscores this, “(For the redemption of their soul is precious, and it ceaseth for ever:)” Psalm 139:17-18 adds, “How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.” Ellen G. White affirms this worth: “God does not require us to give up anything that it is for our best interest to retain. In all that He does he has the well-being of his (own) in view. Would that all who have not chosen Christ might realize that he has something vastly better to offer them than they are seeking for themselves. Man is doing the greatest injury and injustice to his own soul when he thinks and acts contrary to the will of God” (Steps to Christ, p. 46, 1892). She emphasizes: “The soul that is yielded to Christ becomes His own fortress, which He holds in a revolted world, and He intends that no authority shall be known in it except His own. A soul thus kept in possession by the heavenly agencies is impregnable to the assaults of Satan” (The Desire of Ages, p. 324, 1898). If I, an imperfect vessel, could be used to help someone, how much greater is God’s ability to restore us? In my life, I’ve felt the weight of searching for peace amid anxiety and panic attacks. I sought God’s Word and buried myself in Scripture at my lowest. Through Scripture, God’s Word reminded me of my worth. The more I studied, the more peace I found. God’s pursuit brought me out of fear and into faith. Isaiah 8:18 underscores this point “Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me are for signs and for wonders.” Sr. White explains, “No sooner does the sheep go astray than the shepherd is filled with grief and anxiety” (p. 188). How do we recognize and affirm the precious value of every soul around us?

SACRIFICE IGNITES ETERNAL HOPE!

The ultimate measure of a soul’s value is seen in Christ’s sacrifice. Isaiah 53:5-6 describes Him as “wounded for our transgressions” and “bruised for our iniquities.” John 3:16 declares, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son.” Sr. White directs our focus to Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-42) and the cross (Matthew 27:46), asking us to reflect on Christ’s suffering “Would you know its worth, go to Gethsemane, and there watch with Christ through those hours of anguish” (p. 196). She reflects on this asking us to consider Christ’s agony in Gethsemane and on the cross. Christ’s sacrifice reveals the profound depth of redemption’s cost. 1 Peter 1:18-19 illustrates, “Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.” Ephesians 1:7 supports, “In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.” Ellen G. White reflects on this redemptive act: “We are all woven together in the great web of humanity, and whatever we can do to benefit and uplift others will reflect in blessing upon ourselves” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 534, 1890). She adds: “True love is not a strong, fiery, impetuous passion. It is, on the contrary, an element calm and deep. It looks beyond mere externals, and is attracted by qualities alone. It is wise and discriminating, and its devotion is real and abiding” (Education, p. 260, 1903). Sacrifice is not only divine but also personal. I remember when I questioned whether eternal life was worth pursuing. While I never doubted my value in God’s eyes, there were moments when I wondered if it might be easier to fade into obscurity. These thoughts remind me how much I need God’s continued work in my heart. Sacrifice often requires stepping out of comfort. I’ve witnessed this while ministering to friends. I saw the transformation through prayer and Scripture, not because of my efforts but because God used me as an instrument. It showed me that God uses us to reflect His grace and reminds us of our shared responsibility to lift one another up. Sr. White reminds us, “Remember that Christ risked all. For our redemption, heaven itself was imperiled” (p. 196). How does Christ’s sacrifice inspire our own acts of redemption toward others?

DUTIES TO THE DIVINE CALL!

The concepts presented in the parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin highlight our responsibility to reflect God’s love through active pursuit, restoration, and faithful stewardship. Luke 15:4 illustrates the shepherd leaving the ninety-nine to find the one lost sheep, symbolizing God’s call for us to seek and care for those spiritually lost. Sr. White affirms this duty: “We are to lift up the fallen, to strengthen the weak, and to encourage the weary” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 197). This evidence underscores that our role is not to judge but to extend compassion and support, just as Christ does for us. Isaiah 8:18 reminds us that we are to be “signs and wonders” to others, reflecting God’s character through our actions. Sr. White reinforces this by emphasizing, “We must bear patiently with the ignorance, perversity, and waywardness of others” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 197), reminding us to exhibit patience and persistence in our outreach. This responsibility also includes celebrating restoration, as Luke 15:10 shows that “there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.”

Our duties to God compel us to mirror His pursuit and grace. Proverbs 28:13 affirms this, “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Joel 2:25 echoes restoration, “And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you.” Ellen G. White urges this responsibility: “A Christian reveals true humility by showing the gentleness of Christ, by being always ready to help others, by speaking kind words and performing unselfish acts, which elevate and ennoble the most sacred message that has come to our world” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 30, 1909). She further states: “The greatest want of the world is the want of men – men who will not be bought or sold; men who in their inmost souls are true and honest; men who do not fear to call sin by its right name; men whose conscience is as true to duty as the needle to the pole; men who will stand for the right though the heavens fall” (Education, p. 57, 1903). Therefore, we are called to rejoice in repentance and restoration, mirroring heaven’s joy. In conclusion, our responsibilities to God are to seek the lost, extend grace and patience, and celebrate restoration, demonstrating His love to the world through action and example. What does fulfilling these duties look like in our daily walk with God?

LOVING NEIGHBORS AS HEROIC DEEDS!

The concepts in the parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin emphasize our responsibility to love and care for our neighbors by seeking their restoration and spiritual well-being. Galatians 6:2 commands us to “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ,” highlighting that our duty extends beyond personal faith to active involvement in the lives of others. Sr. White supports this idea, writing, “We are to seek the lost and bring them back to the fold. We are to bear with their faults, sympathize with their struggles, and help them to rise above discouragement and sin” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 197). This evidence demonstrates that loving our neighbors involves patience, empathy, and practical assistance, reflecting Christ’s example as the Good Shepherd. Luke 15:5 illustrates the shepherd’s tender care as he lifts the lost sheep onto his shoulders, showing that restoring others requires compassion and effort. Sr. White further explains, “Christ’s followers are to represent Him in character. They are to follow His example in all things” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 197), reinforcing that our actions must reflect God’s love. Loving neighbors demands active compassion and restoration efforts. James 5:19-20 confirms, “Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” Matthew 22:39 supports, “And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Ellen G. White encourages this neighborly love: “And only as we love God supremely is it possible to love our neighbor impartially” (The Desire of Ages, p. 607, 1898). She adds: “In all your temporal concerns, in all your cares and anxieties, wait upon the Lord” (This Day With God, p. 122, 1979). How can we practically bear one another’s burdens in today’s world?

MIRRORING LOVE THROUGH PARABLES!

The parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin reflect God’s love as relentless, personal, and sacrificial. Luke 15:4 demonstrates this by describing the shepherd leaving ninety-nine sheep to seek the one that is lost, illustrating God’s willingness to pursue each sinner. Sr. White emphasizes this pursuit, stating, “If there had been but one lost soul, Christ would have died for that one” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 187). This evidence highlights God’s individualized care, showing that no one is insignificant in His eyes. Furthermore, John 3:16 declares, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,” revealing the depth of divine love through sacrifice. Sr. White expounds on this by asking us to “watch with Christ through those hours of anguish” in Gethsemane to grasp the worth of a soul (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 196). This sacrificial imagery demonstrates that God’s love is not passive but actively seeks to restore and redeem. Finally, Luke 15:7 reveals heaven’s joy when even one sinner repents, reinforcing that God’s love celebrates restoration, not condemnation. God’s love actively pursues and restores through sacrifice. Psalm 23:3 illustrates, “He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” Ezekiel 18:32 echoes, “For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord God: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye.” Ellen G. White portrays this love: “A knowledge of the truth depends not so much upon strength of intellect as upon pureness of purpose, the simplicity of an earnest, dependent faith” (Prayer, p. 56, 2002). She further illuminates: “Prayer is the opening of the heart to God as to a friend. Not that it is necessary in order to make known to God what we are, but in order to enable us to receive Him” (Steps to Christ, p. 93, 1892). How do these parables challenge us to reflect such love in our actions?

CELEBRATE RETURNS WITH CHEER!

These parables portray God’s love as unyielding, tender, and joyful, calling us to reflect His example by pursuing the lost and rejoicing in their return—the parables of the lost sheep and coin end with a celebration. Luke 15:7 declares that heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents. Luke 15:10 “Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” Sr.White emphasizes that heaven risked all for our redemption (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 196).
Celebration marks the triumph of restoration in God’s kingdom. Psalm 51:12 supports, “Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.” Nehemiah 8:10 adds, “Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Ellen G. White captures this jubilation: “The grace of Christ in the soul is developing traits of character that are the opposite of selfishness—traits that will refine, ennoble, and enrich the life” (God’s Amazing Grace, p. 235, 1973). She notes: “Let the youth remember that here they are to build characters for eternity, and that God requires them to do their best. Let those older in experience watch over the younger ones; and when they see them tempted, take them aside, and pray with them and for them” (Messages to Young People, p. 18, 1930). Do our churches today do enough to restore those who leave? Are we actively seeking the lost? Are we celebrating their return? Or are we leaving them to wander alone? This theme resonates deeply with me. After my baptism, I felt the church’s encouragement and joy. It revealed the beauty of Christian fellowship. We must examine whether we reflect Christ’s pursuit and joy in our actions. Sr. White challenges us “We are to lift up the fallen, to strengthen the weak, and to encourage the weary” (p. 197). How can we ignite similar celebrations in our faith communities?

ANSWER THE HEROIC CALL NOW!

The parables of the lost sheep and coin teach us about God’s relentless pursuit and the joy of restoration. Sr. White reminds us that Christ risked all for our redemption, emphasizing the value of each soul (Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 190-196). She underlines that heaven’s risk for redemption demonstrates the worth of every soul, “Heaven itself was imperiled for our redemption” (p. 196). Reflecting on my journey—from feelings of separation to the joy of being found—I am grateful for God’s persistent love. I have seen His hand preparing me through trials, friendships, and even dietary habits aligned with His health principles. We owe our neighbors the responsibility of bearing their burdens, demonstrating Christ-like compassion, and laboring for their restoration, fulfilling God’s call to love through action. Our duties to God are to seek the lost, extend grace and patience, and celebrate restoration, demonstrating His love to the world through action and example. As a church and individuals, we must ask: Are we willing to seek the lost? Are we celebrating restoration as heaven does? And are we showing the same sacrificial love Christ showed for us? Let us commit to reflecting the Shepherd’s heart—pursuing, restoring, and rejoicing—so that all may experience the joy of being found.

Luke 15:7: “I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.”

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