What is the meaning of Matthew 18:13? And if he finds it • Jesus pictures a shepherd who has left the hills to search until the lost sheep is located (Matthew 18:12; Luke 15:4–6). • The certainty—“if he finds it”—reflects God’s determined pursuit of every wandering soul (Ezekiel 34:11–12). • The verse underscores the literal truth that God actively seeks, not passively waits (John 4:23). truly I tell you • This solemn phrase marks Christ’s personal guarantee (Matthew 5:18; John 3:3). • It highlights the reliability of His promise and the absolute trustworthiness of Scripture. • When Jesus says “truly,” we can bank on it as unchanging fact (Numbers 23:19). he rejoices more • The shepherd’s emotional response is spontaneous, abundant joy (Luke 15:5–7). • God delights in restoration: – Joy exceeds mere duty (Zephaniah 3:17). – Celebration follows rescue (Isaiah 62:5). • The scene assures every believer that heaven’s first reaction to repentance is rejoicing, not reprimand. over that one sheep • One life matters to God; He values individuals, not just crowds (Isaiah 43:1; John 10:3). • The “one” reminds the church to avoid overlooking anyone in need of shepherding. • Each redeemed sinner becomes a fresh trophy of grace (1 Timothy 1:15–16). than over the ninety-nine • Comparison stresses intensity, not disregard for the faithful (Luke 15:7, 10). • The ninety-nine already enjoy the shepherd’s care; the lost one heightens joy upon return (Psalm 23:1–3). • It highlights the priority of rescue missions within the flock. that did not go astray • The safely grazing ninety-nine represent believers who remain obedient and protected (John 10:27–28). • Their security does not lessen God’s devotion; it frees Him to search for the straying (2 Peter 3:9). • The phrase affirms that steadfast faith pleases God while also revealing His heart for prodigals (Jude 24). summary Matthew 18:13 pictures a shepherd’s triumphant joy after finding a single lost sheep, illustrating God’s relentless pursuit and exuberant celebration over every sinner who turns back. The verse assures believers of Scripture’s literal promise: each individual is priceless, heaven rejoices at every rescue, and the Shepherd never tires of seeking the wandering while continuously caring for those who remain under His watchful eye. |
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