New Testament
Luke 15:5
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus illustrates the joy of a shepherd who finds a lost sheep.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
And when he finds it, he puts it on his shoulders, rejoicing.
And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus illustrates the joy of a shepherd who finds a lost sheep. The act of placing the sheep on his shoulders signifies care and protection. The shepherd's rejoicing reflects the deep emotional connection and value he places on each sheep, emphasizing that every individual matters. This parable highlights God's love for humanity, showing that He actively seeks out those who are lost or straying. The shepherd's joy upon finding the sheep serves as a metaphor for the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents. This verse encourages believers to understand the importance of each person and the lengths to which God will go to bring them back into the fold. It reassures us that no one is too far gone to be found and cherished by God.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 15:5 to your life
This verse encourages us to actively seek out those who may feel lost or disconnected. We should celebrate their return and show them love and support, just as the shepherd does. It reminds us that every person is valuable and worthy of care.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 15:5 mean?
Luke 15:5 illustrates the joy of a shepherd who finds a lost sheep, symbolizing God's love and care for each individual. The act of placing the sheep on his shoulders signifies protection and the emotional connection the shepherd has with his flock.
What is the significance of the shepherd in Luke 15:5?
The shepherd in Luke 15:5 represents God, who actively seeks out those who are lost. His joy upon finding the sheep emphasizes the value of every individual and the lengths God goes to restore them.
How does Luke 15:5 relate to God's love?
Luke 15:5 demonstrates God's love by showing that He cares for each individual as a shepherd cares for his sheep. The verse emphasizes that no one is too lost to be found and cherished by God.
What is the main message of Luke 15:5?
The main message of Luke 15:5 is the joy and value of each individual in God's eyes. It encourages believers to seek out and celebrate those who may feel lost or disconnected.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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