• Parable of the lost sheep

    The parable of the lost sheep (Mt 18.10-14; Lk 15.3-7) is taught by Jesus at Capernaum in September AD 32, shortly before his final departure from Galilee. Matthew emphasizes the protection of the ‘little ones’ and the divine will not to lose any of them, whereas Luke stresses the heavenly joy over the repentant sinner. The figure of the shepherd points to the messianic mission of Jesus, the good shepherd who prepares his disciples for his absence by promising them a spiritual guide.

    Luke 15.3-7 (King James Version) :
    And he spake this parable unto them, saying,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?And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing.And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.
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