Topical Encyclopedia Sheep are frequently mentioned throughout the Bible, serving as both literal animals and powerful symbols within the biblical narrative. Known for their docile nature, sheep are often associated with innocence, purity, and the need for guidance. However, their sagacity, or wisdom, is also a noteworthy aspect, particularly in the context of their relationship with their shepherd.Biblical Symbolism and Significance In the Bible, sheep are emblematic of God's people, who require the guidance and protection of a shepherd. This imagery is vividly portrayed in Psalm 23:1-2 : "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters." Here, the psalmist acknowledges the Lord's role as a shepherd who provides and cares for His flock, highlighting the sheep's reliance on the shepherd's wisdom. Sheep and the Good Shepherd The New Testament further develops this theme, particularly in the teachings of Jesus Christ. In John 10:14-15 , Jesus declares, "I am the good shepherd. I know My sheep and My sheep know Me, just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father. And I lay down My life for the sheep." This passage underscores the intimate relationship between the shepherd and the sheep, emphasizing the sheep's ability to recognize and follow the voice of their shepherd, a testament to their sagacity. Parables and Teachings Jesus often used sheep in His parables to convey spiritual truths. In the Parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:4-7), Jesus illustrates God's relentless pursuit of the lost, likening it to a shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep to find the one that is lost. This parable not only highlights the value of each individual but also the wisdom of the sheep in recognizing their need to be found and returned to the fold. Old Testament References In the Old Testament, sheep are frequently mentioned in the context of sacrificial offerings, symbolizing purity and atonement. For instance, in Exodus 12:5 , the Passover lamb is described as "an unblemished male a year old," signifying the importance of purity in sacrificial practices. The wisdom of the sheep is seen in their role as a means of reconciliation between God and His people. Sheep as a Metaphor for Wisdom While sheep are often perceived as simple creatures, their ability to follow the shepherd's voice and their role in biblical narratives suggest a deeper wisdom. This sagacity is not rooted in their own understanding but in their trust and dependence on the shepherd. In Matthew 10:16 , Jesus advises His disciples, "Behold, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." Here, the wisdom of the sheep is juxtaposed with the cunning of serpents, encouraging believers to navigate the world with discernment and innocence. Conclusion Throughout the Bible, sheep serve as a profound symbol of the believer's relationship with God. Their sagacity is demonstrated in their reliance on the shepherd's guidance, their role in sacrificial practices, and their presence in Jesus' teachings. As followers of Christ, believers are called to emulate the wisdom of sheep, trusting in the Good Shepherd to lead them in paths of righteousness. Torrey's Topical Textbook John 10:4,5And when he puts forth his own sheep, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Then Manes, after Silence had Been Secured among All... Of the Conversion of Evodius, and the Death of his Mother when ... The Origin of Species. Whether Choice is to be Found in Irrational Animals? The Imperfection of Human Knowledge What Sort of Prayer the Gnostic Employs, and How it is Heard by ... The Genuine Acts of Peter. On his Sister Gorgonia. Revelation of Moses. Vespasian, when He had Taken the City Gadaea Marches to Jotapata. ... Resources What is the meaning of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the Parables of the Lost Sheep and Lost Coin? | GotQuestions.org Why did Jesus tell Peter to "feed my sheep" in John 21? | GotQuestions.org Sheep: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sheep Gate: An Ancient Gate of Jerusalem Sheep of the Defenselessness of Servants of God (Greek: Diakonoi) Sheep of the Wicked in Their Death Sheep of Those Under God's Judgment Sheep were Frequently: Cut off by Disease Sheep were Frequently: Destroyed by Wild Beasts Sheep were Frequently: Given As Presents Sheep were Frequently: Given As Tribute Sheep were Frequently: Taken in Great Numbers in War Sheep: (In Patience and Simplicity) of Patience, of Christ Sheep: (In Proneness to Wander) of Those Who Depart from God Sheep: (Lost) of the Unregenerate Sheep: (Separation from the Goats) the Separation of Saints Sheep: (When Found) Restored Sinners Sheep: Also: Jacob's Management of Sheep: Being Covered With a Fleece Sheep: Bleating of, Alluded To Sheep: Constituted a Great Part of Patriarchal Wealth Sheep: False Prophets Assume the Simple Appearance Sheep: Feasting at the Time of Shearing Sheep: Females of, Called Ewes Sheep: First Wool of, Given to the Priests Sheep: Firstlings of, Could not be Dedicated As a Free-Will offering Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Redeemed Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Shorn Sheep: Flesh of, Extensively Used As Food Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Members of the Family Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Servants Sheep: Flocks of Conducted to the Richest Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Fed in the Valleys Sheep: Flocks of Fed on the Mountains Sheep: Flocks of Fled from Strangers Sheep: Flocks of Followed the Shepherd Sheep: Flocks of Frequently Covered the Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Guarded by Dogs Sheep: Flocks of Kept in Folds or Cotes Sheep: Flocks of Made to Rest at Noon Sheep: Flocks of Watered Every Day Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abel Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abraham Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Noah Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice from the Earliest Age Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice Under the Law Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bashan Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bozrah Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Kedar Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Nebaioth Sheep: Skins of, Made Into a Covering for the Tabernacle Sheep: Skins of, Worn As Clothing by the Poor Sheep: The First Fleece of, Belonged to the Priests and the Levites Sheep: The Land of Bashan Adapted to the Raising of Sheep: Time of Shearing, a Time of Rejoicing Sheep: Tithe of, Given to the Levites Sheep: Tribute (Taxes) Paid In Sheep: Under Man's Care from the Earliest Age Sheep: Washed and Shorn Every Year Sheep: Wool of, Made Into Clothing Related Terms |
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