Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the imagery of sheep is frequently employed to symbolize the righteous, those who follow God with faithfulness and obedience. This metaphor is deeply rooted in the pastoral culture of ancient Israel, where sheep were a common sight and shepherding was a familiar occupation. The Bible uses the characteristics of sheep—such as their need for guidance, their tendency to follow, and their vulnerability—to illustrate the nature of the righteous in their relationship with God.Old Testament References The Old Testament often portrays God's people as sheep under His care. In Psalm 23, one of the most beloved passages, David declares, "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want" (Psalm 23:1). This psalm highlights the provision, guidance, and protection that God offers to His people, likening them to sheep who are led to green pastures and still waters. The prophet Isaiah also uses this imagery to describe the people of Israel: "We all like sheep have gone astray, each one has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid upon Him the iniquity of us all" (Isaiah 53:6). Here, the tendency of sheep to wander is used to illustrate human sinfulness, while the sacrificial role of the Messiah is foreshadowed as the one who bears the iniquities of the people. New Testament References In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is frequently depicted as the Good Shepherd, a role that underscores His care and sacrificial love for the righteous. In John 10:11, Jesus states, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep" . This declaration emphasizes the intimate relationship between Christ and His followers, who are depicted as sheep under His loving and protective care. The parable of the lost sheep, found in Luke 15:3-7, further illustrates the value and importance of each individual believer. Jesus tells of a shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep to search for one that is lost, demonstrating God's relentless pursuit of the righteous and His joy in their repentance and return. The Final Judgment The imagery of sheep is also significant in eschatological contexts, particularly in the depiction of the final judgment. In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus describes the separation of the righteous from the unrighteous using the metaphor of sheep and goats. The righteous, referred to as sheep, are those who have demonstrated their faith through acts of compassion and service: "Then the King will say to those on His right, 'Come, you who are blessed by My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world'" (Matthew 25:34). Symbolism and Characteristics Sheep are emblematic of purity, innocence, and dependence, qualities that are often associated with the righteous. Their need for a shepherd underscores the necessity of divine guidance and protection in the life of a believer. The metaphor of sheep also conveys the idea of community and belonging, as sheep are typically found in flocks, reflecting the collective identity of the people of God. In summary, the biblical portrayal of the righteous as sheep serves to highlight the relationship between God and His people, characterized by care, guidance, and sacrificial love. This imagery reinforces the call for believers to follow their Shepherd with trust and obedience, embodying the virtues of humility and faithfulness. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 78:52But made his own people to go forth like sheep, and guided them in the wilderness like a flock. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 25:33 John 10:1 Library The Surprise of the Righteous The Three Parables of the Gospel: of the Recovery of the Lost - of ... The Evil one Wailed "Where Now, is There a Place for Me to Flee to ... The Lost Sheep. April 23 Evening Of the False Prophet, and the Hardships of the Righteous, and his ... Why God Makes of Some Sheep, Others Not. Ode iv. The Lost Sheep and the Seeking Shepherd Election Confirmed by the Calling of God. The Reprobate Bring Upon ... Resources What does it mean that the righteous will live by faith (Habakkuk 2:4)? | GotQuestions.orgHow can I know for sure that my anger is righteous indignation? | GotQuestions.org Why are all of our righteous acts considered filthy rags? | GotQuestions.org Righteous: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Righteous: Calves of the Stall Righteous: Members of the Body Righteous: Promises To, Expressed or Implied Righteous: Relation of, to God Righteous: Righteous and Wicked, Circumstances of, Contrasted Righteous: Strangers and Pilgrims Righteous: Trees Planted Beside Rivers Righteous: Unity of, With Christ Righteous: Vessels of Gold and Silver Righteous: Willows by the Water Courses Select Readings: The Righteous and the Wicked in Contrast Related Terms |
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