How does Luke 15:5 illustrate Jesus' role as the Good Shepherd? Setting the Scene Luke 15 opens with tax collectors and sinners drawing near to hear Jesus, while Pharisees grumble. In response, Jesus tells three parables about lost things—the lost sheep, lost coin, and lost son. Verse 5 sits at the heart of the first story: “And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders,” (Luke 15:5) The Shepherd’s Immediate Response • The shepherd does not scold the sheep for wandering. • He does not drive it home with a rod. • He “joyfully” reacts—evidence of eager, willing love (Hebrews 12:2). • The moment of finding triggers celebration, not mere duty. Carrying the Sheep: A Picture of Rescue • “Puts it on his shoulders” paints total, secure rescue. – The sheep contributes nothing to its return (Ephesians 2:8-9). – Shoulders signify strength; the weight is borne entirely by the shepherd (Isaiah 46:4). • The action points to substitution: Jesus shoulders our sin and burden (Isaiah 53:4-6; 1 Peter 2:24). • Personal contact underscores tenderness (Isaiah 40:11: “He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them in His bosom”). Personal, Joyful Involvement • Joy is repeated in vv. 5-7; heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents. • The shepherd’s happiness proves that saving sinners is not reluctant but deeply satisfying to Christ (Hebrews 2:11). • His rejoicing motivates the community’s rejoicing (v. 6); salvation is communal, not private alone. Connection to Jesus’ Own Claims • John 10:11—“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” – Luke 15:5 foreshadows the cross: the same shoulders that carry the sheep will carry the crossbeam. • 1 Peter 2:25—“For you were like sheep going astray, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.” • Psalm 23:1—“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Jesus embodies Yahweh’s shepherd care promised in the Old Testament (Ezekiel 34:11-16). Living It Out Today • Marvel at His initiating love—He comes after us. • Rest in His strength—our security is on His shoulders, not our footing. • Reflect His joy—celebrate every conversion, no matter how small the number. • Imitate His shepherd heart—seek the lost actively, carry the weak gently (Galatians 6:2). |
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