Luke 19:10

The scene behind the verse

Still in Zacchaeus's house in Jericho. Jesus explains His mission to the gathering crowd. This becomes His mission statement. Modern-day West Bank, Palestine.

Original language

apollymi (ἀπολωλὸς) — utterly destroyed, completely ruined, beyond hope of recovery

Historical context

This is Jesus's clearest one-sentence summary of why He came to earth

What most readers miss

The word 'came' implies He left somewhere else — this hints at His pre-existence in heaven

Common misconception

People think this is just about non-Christians. But Jesus seeks Christians who feel lost too — lost in depression, addiction, confusion about their calling.

How this verse has been applied

Tonight, before bed, say 'Jesus came to find me' using your own name. 'Jesus came to find [your name].'