Date: March 8, 2020
Lost
The Point: Without Christ, we are hopelessly lost.
Get Into the Study
Use the following current event and discussion question as an optional introduction and Question 1.
Recently there were almost 2,000 people quarantined on a cruise ship in Hong Kong due to suspicions about an outbreak of the coronavirus. The passengers were held for their own safety and the safety of others. If you think about it, they must have felt lost. Here they were sitting on ship, unable to go on excursions, or explore all the places they had in mind for vacation.
However, these passengers weren’t really lost, there was a purpose for the quarantine. The purpose was to diagnose those who were sick so they could be given medicine and then to be able to let other passengers go once they knew they were clear of the virus.
Ask, “When have you felt lost, but later saw the purpose for what had happened?” Allow time for responses. Then ask, “How did you feel while being “lost” and what emotion did you experience when you eventually saw the purpose?”
Dr. Beth Masters is currently working as a hospital chaplain where she engages with families, patients, and hospital staff during critical life moments. She has a Ph.D. in Christian Education from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary where she teaches Collegiate Ministry. Beth loves young adults, baking, and coffee.
Get Into the Study [Additional Option]
Use the following optional activity as you introduce today’s session.
In advance, gather and bring a boomerang or an image of a boomerang. Click here for an image. Also, click here for a video of a boomerang being thrown. Follow the instructions on page 35 of the Young Adult Leader Guide to lead this discussion with your Bible study group.
This idea supports the teaching plan found in the Young Adult Leader Guide.
Study the Bibly
Use the following story in your discussion as a lead-in to Question 5 in the Luke 15:20-24 section.
Insider recently reported the story of a spontaneous baby shower that took place in the middle of the air. Caren and Dustin Moore were flying home with their newly adopted baby, when a flight attendant learned of the adoption. The flight attendant made an announcement over the cabin speakers encouraging the passengers to write congratulatory notes to the new parents. The notes, which were later compiled in an album, were written on Southwest beverage napkins and included words of encouragement and advice.
Baby showers are one way we celebrate new life, a new member of the family. But it is unusual for strangers to join in the celebration. When someone turns to God, we are seeing a new life and new member of our church family. How much greater should our celebration be over an eternal addition to the family?
Nikki Wilbanks grew up in Tennessee before heading to California to study literature at Pepperdine University. After graduation, she enjoyed a decade-long career as a commercial real estate appraiser and investor. Having returned to Tennessee with her husband, she is now thrilled to be a stay-at-home mom, writer, and Bible study teacher.
Live It Out [Additional Option]
Use the following optional activity as you close today’s session.
In advance, use an internet search to find a news story of someone who was lost, prompting a wide search, and then was found.
