The Only Distinction That Matters

by Rick Warren — March 29, 2022
From The Miracle of Mercy

“For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”

Luke 19:10 (NLT)

In God’s eyes, there are only two kinds of people—saved people and lost people. Every one of us falls into one of these two categories. And, ultimately, no other human distinction matters.

God loves all people—regardless of gender, race, or culture. And he doesn’t distinguish people by their education, looks, wealth, or talent. What matters most to him is whether people are spiritually saved or lost.

“Saved” and “lost” imply value. The two words mean that God sees you as being worthy of seeking, saving, and finding; “saved” and “lost” are expressions of his love.

The Bible says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost” (Luke 19:10 NLT). That’s how valuable you are. Jesus Christ came to earth to seek you and to save you.

Only valuable things get lost; invaluable things just get misplaced. In other words, nobody loses a toothpick. You may misplace a toothpick, but you don’t lose it—because it’s not that valuable.

If I lost my wedding ring, it would be a real loss because it represents over 40 years of commitment to my wife. Not only that, but Kay gave it to me, and I love her. I would never misplace my wedding ring; I would lose it.

So, when we talk about whether a person is spiritually saved or lost, we’re not talking about that person’s value. Whether someone is saved or lost, they’re incredibly valuable.

But God doesn’t want anyone to be spiritually lost. Why? Because it means they are disconnected from him and don’t have a relationship with him.

Over the next three days, we’re going to look at the question, “What do you actually lose when you’re spiritually lost?” The answers to this question will help you understand how much you matter to God and help you share this encouraging news with others.

Talk It Over

  • Have you—perhaps unconsciously—thought of people who are lost as having different value from those who are saved? How does it feel to know all people are of equal value to God?
  • What’s an example of something you have lost? What’s something you have misplaced? What was the value of each of those things to you?
  • Who in your life needs to hear how valuable they are to God? How can you take time to encourage them by telling them that today?

There is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus

The Bible says in John 3:18, “Those who believe in the Son are not judged” (GNT). Romans 8:1 says it like this: “There is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus”(NLT).

If you’re ready to accept that promise, stop fearing God’s judgment, and commit your life to Jesus, then pray this prayer:

“Dear Jesus, you have promised that if I believe in you, everything I’ve ever done wrong will be forgiven, and I will learn the purpose of my life. Instead of judging me, you will accept me into your eternal home in heaven one day.

“I confess my sin, and I believe that you are God, my Savior. I receive you into my life as my Lord. Thank you that I don’t have to earn salvation, deserve it, or work for it. It is your gift of grace.

Today I’m turning over every part of my life to you. I want to use the rest of my life to serve you instead of serving myself. I humbly commit my life to you, and I ask you to save me and accept me into your family. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.”

If you just prayed to accept Jesus, please email me at [email protected]and let me know about it. I’d like to send you some free materials to help you start your journey with Jesus.


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