Digging Deeper: We are God’s Search and Rescue Team

The 2018 rescue of a youth soccer team trapped in a flooded cave in Thailand captivated the world. International experts and divers rushed to the scene because they understood that lives were at stake. No one suggested waiting until the water went down or taking their time—they acted immediately. They were driven by a single-minded purpose: to find the lost and bring them to safety. The early church in Acts lived with a similar holy urgency, understanding that they were part of God’s ultimate search-and-rescue mission.

Luke’s words, “And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved,” are a powerful reminder of this mission. The church wasn’t just a gathering of believers; it was a vibrant hub of gospel proclamation. They knew that people around them were spiritually lost and that they had a crucial part to play. Romans 10:14 makes it clear that people cannot call on Christ unless they have heard the good news, and they cannot hear unless someone tells them. This isn’t a suggestion—it’s a profound responsibility. The early church acted as God’s hands, feet, and voice, sharing the gospel with everyone they encountered. They understood that salvation is God’s work, but He delights to use His people as living testimonies.

The role of every believer is to speak, to love, and to go so that others can hear the life-giving message. The church must live with the same urgency as those rescuers, knowing that eternity is on the line for the people around them.

Reflection Questions:

• Who in your life needs to hear the gospel, and how can you tell them?

• What is one step you can take to live with greater urgency for lost people?

Prayer:
Lord, give me eyes to see those who are far from You. Give me courage to speak, compassion to care, and faith to trust You with the results as I share the good news. Amen.