He Was Rescued

eDevotion

Encouragement for your daily walk with God

When I was in Bible College I read an interesting story about the apostle John, as told by Eusebius. It was a most fascinating read. The story went like this:

The elderly John took an interest in a young man from Ephesus. Having to travel for ministry, John left the lad in the care of a bishop, but soon, the boy was corrupted by a gang. It wasn’t long before he became their leader. When John returned, he expected to find the boy maturing in his faith. His excitement quickly turned to bitter sorrow when the bishop told him of the boy’s fate.

The apostle tore his clothes and began to groan in prayer. He saddled an animal and searched for his young disciple. It wasn’t long before he came to the “hideout” of the gang.

As John approached the gang, the boy recognized him and ran away in shame. But John ran after him as hard as he could, forgetting his age, and calling out, 'Why are you running away from me, child – from your own father, unarmed and old? Pity me, child, don't fear me! I will give account to Christ for you, and if necessary, gladly suffer death and give my life for yours as the Lord suffered death for us. Stop! Believe! Christ sent me.'"

The young man stopped and, throwing down his weapons, began to weep. John hugged him and soon the boy hugged back and begged for forgiveness. John led the boy back to the Lord and stayed with him until he was restored to the church.

Great story isn’t it! I’ve told it many times when speaking with someone who thinks they cannot be forgiven their backsliding.

Erring brothers and sisters can be restored. Perhaps someone comes to mind as you read this devotion. You may just be the instrument God uses to bring a “prodigal” home! Be full of God’s Spirit, go out in faith, and rescue the lost sheep.

I love the refrain of an old Fanny Crosby hymn, Rescue the Perishing.

Rescue the perishing, care for the dying;

Jesus is merciful, Jesus will save.

Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Galatians 6:1