Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the imagery of the lamb is rich with symbolism and meaning, often representing innocence, sacrifice, and purity. The shepherd's care for the lamb is a profound theme that runs throughout Scripture, illustrating God's tender and protective relationship with His people.Old Testament Context The concept of the lamb is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, where it is frequently associated with sacrifice and atonement. The Passover lamb, as described in Exodus 12, is a prime example. The Israelites were instructed to select a lamb without blemish, sacrifice it, and apply its blood to their doorposts as a sign for the Lord to "pass over" their homes during the final plague in Egypt. This act of divine protection underscores the shepherd's care for His flock, as God provided a means of salvation for His people. In Isaiah 40:11, the prophet beautifully portrays God's care for His people using the imagery of a shepherd: "He tends His flock like a shepherd; He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart; He gently leads those that have young." This passage highlights the tender and nurturing nature of God's care, emphasizing His attentiveness and compassion towards the vulnerable and weak. New Testament Fulfillment The New Testament continues and fulfills the imagery of the lamb through the person of Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the "Lamb of God." In John 1:29, John the Baptist declares, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" This identification of Jesus as the Lamb signifies His role as the ultimate sacrifice for sin, fulfilling the sacrificial system of the Old Testament. The shepherd's care is further exemplified in the parable of the lost sheep found in Luke 15:4-7. Here, Jesus describes a shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine sheep to search for the one that is lost. This parable illustrates the personal and relentless care of the shepherd, who values each individual lamb and rejoices upon its return. It reflects God's desire for the salvation and restoration of every soul. In John 10:11, Jesus declares, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep." This statement encapsulates the ultimate expression of the shepherd's care—self-sacrifice. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, willingly lays down His life for His flock, demonstrating the depth of His love and commitment to their well-being. The Lamb in Revelation The Book of Revelation presents the Lamb as a central figure in the eschatological vision. Revelation 5:6 describes a Lamb standing as though it had been slain, symbolizing Christ's victory through His sacrificial death. The Lamb is worthy to open the scroll and execute God's final judgment and redemption plan. Revelation 7:17 further emphasizes the shepherd's care: "For the Lamb in the center of the throne will be their shepherd. 'He will lead them to springs of living water,' and 'God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.'" This passage assures believers of the Lamb's ongoing guidance and comfort, promising eternal care and provision. Conclusion The imagery of the lamb and the shepherd's care is a powerful testament to God's love, protection, and provision for His people. From the sacrificial lamb of the Passover to the Good Shepherd who lays down His life, the Bible consistently portrays a God who is intimately involved in the lives of His followers, guiding, nurturing, and ultimately redeeming them through the Lamb, Jesus Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 40:11He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Divine Shepherd Jesus is Born in Bethlehem (On Whitsuntide, I. ) Field Hymns. The Good Shepherd Three Decisive Steps The Shepherd, the Stone of Israel The Great Shepherd The Story of David John Chapter x. 13-Nov Resources What is the significance of sheep in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgIf Jesus is our atonement, why did He die at Passover instead of the Day of Atonement? | GotQuestions.org If Jesus was crucified on the Day of Preparation, why had He already eaten the Passover meal? | GotQuestions.org Lamb: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Lamb: Not to be Seethed (Boiled) in Its own Mother's Milk The Lamb of Any Thing Dear or Cherished The Lamb of Christ As a Sacrifice The Lamb: (Among Wolves) of Ministers Among the Ungodly The Lamb: (Brought to Slaughter) of the Wicked Under Judgments The Lamb: (Consumed in Sacrifice) of Complete Destruction of The The Lamb: (Deserted and Exposed) of Israel Deprived of God's The Lamb: (Patience of) the Patience of Christ The Lamb: An Extensive Commerce In The Lamb: Considered a Great Delicacy The Lamb: Covenants Confirmed by Gift of The Lamb: Exposed to Danger from Wild Beasts The Lamb: Numbers of, Given by Josiah to the People for Sacrifice The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice by the Wicked not Accepted The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice: At a Year Old The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice: At the Passover The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice: Every Morning and Evening The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice: Females The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice: from the Earliest Times The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice: Males The Lamb: Offered in Sacrifice: While Sucking The Lamb: The First Born of an Donkey to be Redeemed With The Lamb: The Image of, Was the First Impression of on Money The Lamb: The Shepherd's Care For The Lamb: The Young of the Flock The Lamb: Tribute often Paid In Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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