Lost Sheep
Summary
A central image in Jesus' parables and teaching, representing sinners whom God seeks to save.
☩Jesus' Mission
Jesus declared, 'I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel' (Matthew 15:24). He described Himself as the Good Shepherd who 'giveth his life for the sheep' (John 10:11). When criticized for associating with sinners, He responded that the sick need a physician (Matthew 9:12-13). His compassion for the crowds was because they were 'as sheep having no shepherd' (Matthew 9:36).
☩Parable of the Lost Sheep
Jesus asked, 'What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?' (Luke 15:4). Finding it, the shepherd rejoices and calls neighbors to share his joy. Jesus concluded, 'Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons' (Luke 15:7). This parable reveals God's heart for the lost.
Related Verses7 mentions
References
- 1.James Hastings (ed.), "Lost Sheep," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Lost Sheep," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. III (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).