What Do We Mean When We Say Someone Is "Lost"?

If it's just my opinion that you are going too fast, then there is no problem.  But if that State Trooper behind you with the flashing light says you are going too fast, that is a different matter.  He has authority and the law on his side.

Now suppose I say, "You are lost and need Jesus".   If that is just my opinion....don't sweat it.   But suppose that “Someone” with Authority....”Someone” with the Law on His side....said "You are Lost!"  That is a different matter. God, the ultimate Authority and Law-giver, says to everyone outside of Jesus Christ "You are Lost!" That word "Lost" encompasses a couple of important facts.   Relationally you are lost.  You (and every other person who breaks God's commandments) are no longer in a relationship with God.  He can't stand sin. 

That's why Adam and Eve were kicked out of the Garden.  Up until the moment they ate the forbidden fruit they had enjoyed unbroken fellowship with God.   They ate the fruit and that relationship was broken. 

Worse yet, sinners are people who have lost the hope of a home in Heaven.   Romans 6:23 says that "the wages of sin is Death."  Biblically speaking, Death is more than just the cessation of physical life, although it involves that.  "Death" by definition means "separation."  Our relationship with God experiences separation when we sin.  And we are forever separated from His presence with no hope of Heaven.

Unless....Unless that relationship and that hope can be restored.

In Luke 19:10 Jesus issued His Mission Statement:  

'For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost."

People have been told for years that Jesus died because He loved them.  Some hear that and say, "If He loved me, why did He do that?  Why didn't He just let me win the lottery?  Or marry the person of my dreams?" Or any of a thousand other things I could have been ‘blessed’ with.  The fact is that Jesus died to pay the penalty for our sins. 

Remember the speeding illustration from above? A speeding ticket may cost a pretty penny.  But imagine a crime with a penalty beyond human ability to pay.  The situation would be hopeless.  And it WAS hopeless...until God decided to pay the penalty for us.  Those who accept Jesus' sacrifice have their relationship with God restored, and their hope of Heaven restored.  They cease to be "Lost".

Have YOU accepted Christ's sacrifice on your behalf?  Have you come to Him in faith and obedience?  Do you know how?  (If not, contact me here at this website‚)   If you know what to do but have been putting it off, why?

Lost is a bad thing.  You don't want to still be in that condition when life is over.

Think about it!

See you soon,

Bill