Tag Archives: seek and to save that which was lost

The term endgame is an expression from the game of chess. Dating back to the 1850’s, endgame refers to the final stage when few pieces remain on the board. When a player’s remaining piece or pieces are trapped, it’s only a matter of time before your opponent declares, “check mate.” From a spiritual perspective, God has always remained one step ahead of the Devil. Just as he was reveling in his victory over Adam and Eve, God’s endgame is revealed in Genesis 3:14-15. While the Devil acquired authority as ruler of the air as spoils for his triumph, Ephesians 2:2, Jesus is sent as a second Adam to change the momentum in this spiritual game of chess.

And Jesus said to him, Today is [Messianic and spiritual] salvation come to [all the members of] this household, since Zacchaeus too is a [real spiritual] son of Abraham; ¹⁰ For the Son of Man came to seek and to save that which was lost, Luke 19:9-10.

According to the apostle Paul, there is no one on earth who is capable of pleasing God, Romans 3:10-12. No matter how determined you may be to achieve perfection, it won’t be long before your weaknesses are exposed. Subsequently, human beings are flawed creatures, unable to turn off their curious nature. Whether you wander into darkness or sit on the fence, watching the grass on the other side, everyone screws up. In the passage above, Jesus meets with a corrupt politician who always took more than was necessary. Despite over taxing and stealing from his constituents, Jesus’ endgame was to seek and to save those who were lost.

For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live], Ephesians 2:10.

The game changer for sinners occurs in Romans 5:8. Despite all of our imperfections, God sent his son Jesus to die on our behalf. When Jesus was finally pronounced dead on the cross, Matthew 27:50, the Devil was lulled into a false sense of security. Believing this chess match was over, the Devil convinced one of Jesus’ disciples to take his own life, Matthew 27:5. Jesus died so that individuals could be raised back to life spiritually using this same resurrection power. The apostle Paul uses an illustration in Colossians 3:1-9 as you put to death your old life you can be recreated in Christ Jesus. God’s endgame introduces grace to the lost, God’s riches at Christ’s expense. Whatever you endure, don’t forget God’s endgame.

by Jay Mankus