Going Home Without Jesus

GOING HOME WITHOUT JESUS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 2:41-50

"And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him." – Luke 2:45

Supporting Texts:

Mark 8:36, John 15:5, Revelation 3:20, Matthew 25:1-12, Luke 24:31-32

INTRODUCTION:

One of the greatest tragedies in life is to journey without Jesus. In Luke 2:41-50, we read the story of Mary and Joseph, who unknowingly left Jerusalem without Jesus. They assumed He was among their company, but after a day's journey, they realised He was missing. They had to return to Jerusalem, searching anxiously for three days before they found Him in the temple.

This incident mirrors the spiritual condition of many today. People embark on life's journey without Christ, assuming all is well, only to realise—sometimes too late—that He is missing. Some start with Him but lose His presence due to distractions, sin, or negligence.

In this sermon, we will examine the dangers of going home without Jesus, the need for spiritual awareness, and the steps to ensure that we always walk with Him.

1. THE DANGER OF ASSUMPTION IN OUR WALK WITH GOD

Many people assume they are walking with Jesus when, in reality, they have left Him behind.

a) Assumption leads to spiritual complacency (Revelation 3:1).

The church in Sardis had a reputation for being alive, but they were spiritually dead.

b) A relationship with Christ requires intentionality (John 15:5).

Jesus is the true vine; without Him, we can do nothing.

c) Many assume religious activity equals intimacy with Christ (Matthew 7:22-23).

On the last day, some will claim to know Jesus, but He will deny them.

d) Carelessness in our spiritual journey leads to separation from Christ (Judges 16:20).

Samson did not realise that the Lord had departed from him.

e) Biblical Example: The parents of Jesus (Luke 2:43-45).

They assumed He was with them but later discovered He was missing.

2. THE COST OF GOING HOME WITHOUT JESUS

Leaving Jesus behind has devastating consequences.

a) A life without Jesus leads to loss and regret (Mark 8:36).

Gaining the world without Christ results in eternal loss.

b) It brings confusion and lack of direction (Proverbs 14:12).

There is a way that seems right, but its end is destruction.

c) Without Jesus, life becomes a struggle (Matthew 11:28-30).

His presence brings rest, but His absence results in burdens.

d) Separation from Jesus leads to spiritual darkness (John 8:12).

He is the Light of the world, and without Him, we walk in darkness.

e) Biblical Example: The prodigal son (Luke 15:11-17).

He left his father’s house and ended up in misery until he returned.

3. SIGNS THAT YOU HAVE LEFT JESUS BEHIND

Many people are unaware when they have lost their connection with Jesus.

a) A decline in prayer and Bible study (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

When prayer becomes a burden instead of a delight, something is wrong.

b) Loss of passion for God's presence and worship (Psalm 42:1-2).

True believers hunger for God’s presence.

c) Increased comfort with sin and worldliness (1 John 2:15-16).

A growing love for the world is a sign of spiritual drift.

d) Lack of conviction and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30).

A seared conscience is a sign of a broken fellowship with Christ.

e) Biblical Example: The lukewarm church of Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-17).

They thought they were rich but were spiritually blind and naked.

4. HOW TO FIND JESUS AGAIN IF YOU HAVE LEFT HIM

If you realise you have left Jesus behind, He can still be found.

a) Recognise and admit that He is missing (Luke 15:17).

The prodigal son came to his senses and acknowledged his need to return.

b) Return to the place where you lost Him (Revelation 2:4-5).

Jesus told the Ephesian church to remember, repent, and return.

c) Seek Him with all your heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

When we seek Him sincerely, we will find Him.

d) Restore your fellowship through prayer and the Word (James 4:8).

Drawing near to God brings restoration.

e) Biblical Example: Mary and Joseph returned to Jerusalem (Luke 2:45).

They searched diligently and found Jesus in the temple.

5. THE BLESSINGS OF JOURNEYING WITH JESUS

Walking with Jesus guarantees peace, guidance, and eternal security.

a) His presence gives direction (Isaiah 30:21).

He leads His own in the right path.

b) He grants rest and peace (John 14:27).

With Him, we have peace even in the storms of life.

c) His power brings victory over sin and the enemy (Romans 8:37).

In Him, we are more than conquerors.

d) Jesus ensures we reach our eternal home (John 14:1-3).

He has prepared a place for those who follow Him.

e) Biblical Example: The two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-32).

When Jesus walked with them, their eyes were opened, and their hearts burned with joy.