As a child, when was a time you got lost from your family or a group?

In Jesus’ day there were lots of religious people, but none of them really cared about the people around them. Sometimes we might be tempted to judge/condemn those who are far from God (their lifestyle, choices, worldview), yet Jesus’ response to them was always compassion.

Matthew 9:36
What differentiates a “religious” person from a shepherd as Jesus described?

What is the difference between empathy, sympathy, and compassion?

When do you have the hardest time showing someone compassion?

Jesus’ compassion led him to do something about those who were far from Him.

Matthew 18:12-14
Jesus sees people as lost and found. It might help us to realize that the difference between followers of Jesus and those who are not, isn’t those who are right and those who are wrong, it is really those who are lost and those who have been found.

How should that truth change how we see the people around us who don’t know Jesus?

Jesus continually wanted us to be aware of those around us who were not yet living in the hope and new life He offers. And to be reminded that we are following Jesus because of the people who helped us get to where we are.

Romans 10:12-15
Who were the people who were influential in you coming to faith?

Having just identified people who helped guide you in your faith. What is something you can start doing this week to guide others to take their next steps with God?