Topical Encyclopedia The Parable of the Lost Sheep is one of the most beloved teachings of Jesus Christ, illustrating God's profound love and relentless pursuit of sinners. This parable is recorded in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, each providing a unique context and emphasis.Scriptural Accounts: 1. Matthew 18:12-14 : "What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go to look for the one that is lost? And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he rejoices more over that one sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray. In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish." 2. Luke 15:3-7 : "Then Jesus told them this parable: 'What man among you, if he has a hundred sheep and loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open field and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders, comes home, and calls together his friends and neighbors to tell them, "Rejoice with me, for I have found my lost sheep!" In the same way, I tell you that there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous ones who do not need to repent.'" Context and Interpretation: The parable is set within the pastoral imagery familiar to Jesus' audience, where shepherding was a common occupation. The shepherd's dedication to his flock is a metaphor for God's unwavering commitment to His people. The lost sheep represents individuals who have strayed from God's path, while the shepherd symbolizes Jesus Himself, who seeks out the lost with compassion and determination. In Matthew's account, the parable is part of a discourse on humility and care for "little ones," emphasizing God's desire that none should perish. It underscores the value of each individual soul and the divine initiative to restore those who have gone astray. Luke's version is part of a trilogy of parables about lost things, including the Lost Coin and the Prodigal Son, highlighting themes of repentance and divine joy. Here, the focus is on the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, illustrating the boundless grace and mercy of God. Theological Significance: The Parable of the Lost Sheep reveals several key theological truths: · God's Love and Mercy: The parable powerfully conveys God's love for sinners and His willingness to go to great lengths to bring them back into the fold. It reflects the heart of the Gospel message, where Jesus, the Good Shepherd, seeks and saves the lost (John 10:11). · Repentance and Restoration: The joy in heaven over one sinner who repents underscores the importance of repentance in the Christian faith. It affirms that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace and that restoration is always possible. · Value of the Individual: Each person is precious in God's sight, and the parable emphasizes the worth of every soul. It challenges believers to reflect God's love by caring for and seeking out those who are spiritually lost. Practical Application: For believers, the Parable of the Lost Sheep serves as a call to emulate the shepherd's compassion and diligence. It encourages Christians to reach out to those who have wandered from the faith, offering love, support, and guidance. The parable also invites self-reflection, prompting individuals to consider their own spiritual state and the need for repentance and reconciliation with God. Nave's Topical Index Luke 15:3-7And he spoke this parable to them, saying, Nave's Topical Index Matthew 18:12-14 Library The Parable of the Lost Sheep The Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin, and the Prodigal Son. The Lost Sheep and the Seeking Shepherd The Lost Sheep. Chronological Table of the Life of Christ [From Andrews. ] The Three Parables of the Gospel: of the Recovery of the Lost - of ... The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah The Lost Coin. A Sort of Sorites, as the Logicians Call It, to Show that the ... Christ Teaching by Parables Resources Questions about Jesus Christ (All) | GotQuestions.orgHow many prophecies did Jesus fulfill? | GotQuestions.org Is the rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar biblical? | GotQuestions.org Jesus: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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