Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, sheep are frequently used as a metaphor for God's people, illustrating their dependence, vulnerability, and need for guidance. The imagery of sheep is particularly poignant when discussing the theme of restored sinners, as it encapsulates the journey from lostness to redemption through divine intervention.Biblical Context and Symbolism Sheep are mentioned throughout the Bible, often symbolizing innocence and purity, but also waywardness and the need for a shepherd. The metaphor of sheep is deeply embedded in the pastoral culture of the ancient Near East, where sheep were a common part of daily life. This cultural backdrop provides a rich tapestry for understanding the spiritual lessons conveyed through the imagery of sheep. The Parable of the Lost Sheep One of the most profound illustrations of sheep as restored sinners is found in the Parable of the Lost Sheep, as recounted in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. In Matthew 18:12-14 , Jesus tells the story of a shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep to search for the one that has gone astray. Upon finding it, he rejoices more over that one sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not wander. This parable highlights God's relentless pursuit of sinners and His joy in their repentance and restoration. "I am the Good Shepherd" In John 10:11-16 , Jesus declares, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep." Here, Jesus identifies Himself as the shepherd who not only seeks the lost but also sacrifices Himself for their salvation. This passage underscores the depth of God's love and commitment to restoring sinners, portraying Jesus as the ultimate shepherd who ensures the safety and redemption of His flock. Old Testament Foundations The theme of God as a shepherd is not limited to the New Testament. In the Old Testament, Psalm 23 famously begins, "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." This psalm reflects the trust and security found in God's guidance and care, a precursor to the New Testament's fuller revelation of Christ as the shepherd who restores sinners. Restoration and Rejoicing The restoration of sinners is a cause for great rejoicing in the biblical narrative. Luke 15:7 states, "In the same way, I tell you that there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous ones who do not need to repent." This heavenly celebration emphasizes the value of each individual soul and the transformative power of God's grace. Conclusion The metaphor of sheep as restored sinners is a powerful testament to God's unyielding love and mercy. It serves as a reminder of humanity's tendency to stray and the divine initiative to bring the lost back into the fold. Through the imagery of sheep, the Bible communicates the profound truth of redemption and the joy that accompanies the sinner's return to God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 15:5,7And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Three Parables of the Gospel: of the Recovery of the Lost - of ... The Lost Sheep. The Parable of the Lost Sheep After Eutropius Having Been Found Outside the Church had Been ... Of the Parables of the Lost Ewe and the Lost Drachma. Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners: Going Home --A Christmas Sermon The Lost Silver Piece The Way of Salvation Letter cxxii. To Rusticus. Resources What did Jesus mean when He said “I am the door” (John 10:7)? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jesus say that He was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel (Matthew 15:24)? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that the Lord is my Shepherd (Psalm 23)? | 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 |
    |