Introduction:
1 John 2:19 - They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us.
How to Rescue a Stray (James 5:19-20):
- Learn how to Recognize a stray. (Jas 5:19a, 20a)
Matthew 9:13 - For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.
Romans 5:8 - but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us...
- Remember what's at stake. (Jas 5:20b)
Revelation 21:8 - But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.
- Take Responsibility . (Jas 5:19b, 20a)
2 Corinthians 5:18, 20 - All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation... Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us.
- Encourage Repentance . (Jas 5:19b, 20)
Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANK
Hint: Highlight blanks above for answers!
Small Group Discussion
Read James 5:19-20
What was your big take-away from this passage / message?
How do you know when someone is “wandering from the truth”? How do you know when to stop pursuing a stray?
What is the motivation behind rescuing a stray? How much does this motivation move you?
Why is repentance a necessary part of receiving Jesus? Can you receive Jesus without repenting? Why or why not?
Have you been going after a stray? Share your experience with the group (no names!).
Breakout
Who do you know who has “wandered away” from Harvest? Pray for them, and call / text them NOW.