(Luke 15:4)
I believe that through out the years the church has missed the message of this parable. And I may get some disagreement on this. But I believe that the spiritual leadership of the church have a responsibility, not only to those believers who faithfully gather together to receive constant spiritual food and care. But to those who have left the fold, for one reason or another.
Any one who has the responsibility of spiritual leadership (whether they are elders, deacons, pastors, Bible school teachers, youth leaders, etc.)
is to care, not only for the ninety-nine, but for those who have left the fold. (Note: These are the shepherd's sheep)
So often, because there have been conflicts, and disagreements, believers have left the fold, and choose, to never have anything to do with the church, or the leadership again. And the attitude of leadership has been. "I am glad that they left, now our problems are over." No our problems are not over, because in so expressing this type of attitude, we dis-please the Lord Jesus Christ.
Because the one main thing that the Lord expects of His church, is to maintain unity. (Read John 17:20-21)
I have heard it said, "that once Christians leave, it is hard to get them back." But I believe that shepherds in God's fold are to make every effort, and do whatever it takes, to make peace, and pursue unity, among the brethren.
It makes a statement to God, to the church, and to the world, of our love, and concern. We are to show the love of Christ. And when we do, what a difference it will make. GP
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