[284 words]
Our answer to this question determines our approach to, and attitude toward those around us. It will either give us a sense of urgency or of complacency. The question is, “Who is lost?” During His days on earth, Jesus believed that some were lost, because He came to “Seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). He also sent the disciples on the Limited Commission to “the lost sheep of the house of Israel (Matthew 10:6). We may even find Jesus telling his hearers who (according to Him) is lost. Consider these four passages in random chronological order.
First, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned” (Mark 16:16). Therefore, those who have the capacity to, but who do not believe in Jesus will be lost.
Second, “Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3). Thus, those who do not turn from their errors and develop a childlike heart will be lost.
Third, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21). In other words, sincere religious people who believe in Jesus, but who do not obey the will of His Father, will be lost.
Fourth, “Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). Consequently, those who are not scripturally baptized are lost. Do you believe Jesus?
J. Brooks Boyd, Jr.
Livingston church of Christ
Livingston, TN