Everyone knows someone who used to be strong in their faith but has fallen away from church and God. Whether through discouragement, hurt, poor choices, or life circumstances, many have stopped showing up. This message explores our responsibility to go after those who have fallen away and help restore them.
Why Should We Care About Those Who Have Fallen Away?
The Bible makes it clear in the book of James that it's our job to go after those who have fallen away from faith. We can't just miss them or wish they would come back - we must be proactive in reaching out. God is calling on us to help bring people back to Him.
What's the Right Way to Reach Out to Someone?
When reaching out to someone who has fallen away, remember these three simple things to say:
- We miss you.
- We need you.
- We love you.
It's not about condemning or pointing out what they've done wrong. When people know you genuinely care, it can make all the difference. Sometimes a simple message expressing that you noticed their absence and miss them is all it takes.
Understanding God's Heart for Prodigals
The parable of the prodigal son shows us God's heart for those who have fallen away. Even after the son squandered his inheritance and hit rock bottom, the father ran to embrace him when he returned home. He didn't lecture or condemn - he celebrated his son's return with a feast.
What Holds People Back from Returning to Church?
Life has a tendency to beat people up. Maybe they’re discouraged and hopeless, they’ve lost passion or have misunderstood something and headed down a wrong path. All they may need is to know you miss them and love them. Helping others to get back on course is so close to God’s heart. Get out of your box, out of your comfort zone and help someone who God loves.
Many people have a wrong concept of God, thinking He's angry and waiting to punish them. They live with guilt and condemnation. But the Bible tells us that it's God's goodness that leads people to repentance (Romans 2:4). The gospel is good news - God is not mad at them.
How Can We Be Effective in Reaching Others?
You don't need to know a bunch of scriptures or have all the answers. Like the woman at the well who encountered Jesus, simply share your story of how meeting Jesus impacted and changed your life. Be salt and light wherever you go - in your workplace, neighborhood, and daily activities.
This week, take on the assignment to go after a "prodigal" - someone who has fallen away from faith. Reach out with love and let them know they are missed and needed.
Here are some questions to reflect on:
- Who do you know that used to be strong in faith but has fallen away?
- What's holding you back from reaching out to them?
- How can you be more intentional about being "salt and light" in your daily interactions?
- Are you living in a way that makes others want to know more about Jesus?
Remember, we are not called to be judges but to be agents of healing and restoration. The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Will you answer the call to go after those who have fallen away?
