Source: View original Google Doc Converted: 2026-04-22
Introduction
This lesson was prepared for a barbecue / fellowship meeting setting — a shorter, more conversational format. The central theme: God sees every individual, and so should we.
The Lost Sheep (Luke 15:3–7)
“What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it?” — Luke 15:4
Key observations:
- The shepherd leaves the ninety-nine for the one
- He does not send others — he goes himself
- He carries it back — it cannot walk on its own
- Heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents
The mathematics of God’s love: the one is as precious as the ninety-nine.
God Sees the Individual
The Samaritan Woman (John 4)
- She came to the well alone, at the sixth hour (midday) — avoiding other women
- Jesus was waiting for her — alone, tired, by the well
- He asked her about her deepest wound: “Go, call your husband” (John 4:16)
- She became the first missionary: “Come, see a man who told me all that I ever did” (John 4:29)
God did not reach Samaria through a campaign. He reached it through one woman, met at a well.
The Sinful Woman (Luke 7:36–50)
- She entered a Pharisee’s house — uninvited, unwelcome
- She wept at Jesus’ feet, dried them with her hair, anointed them with costly perfume
- The Pharisee saw a sinner. Jesus saw a person who loved much.
“Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven — for she loved much.” — Luke 7:47
Moses and the Burning Bush (Exodus 3)
- Moses was alone, in the wilderness, tending sheep
- He turned aside to see a strange sight
- God called him by name: “Moses, Moses!” (Exodus 3:4)
God’s revelation of Himself — “I AM WHO I AM” — came to one man, in a desert, at a burning bush.
Our Call: Connect with Each Person
If God cares for each person individually, then we — made in His image — are called to do the same in our community.
Practical Assignment
At the next fellowship or gathering:
- Do not stay in your comfort group — resist the pull to spend the whole evening with the people you already know
- Find the person standing alone — there is always someone
- Ask one real question and actually listen to the answer
- Remember one thing about them for next time
“The ninety-nine are fine. Go find the one.”
Reflection Questions
- When has someone sought you out individually, and what did it mean to you?
- Is there someone in our community you see but don’t know? What’s one step you can take?
- How does knowing that God pursued you individually change the way you see yourself?