New Testament
Matthew 18:12
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What do you think? If a man owns 100 sheep and one of them wanders off, won't he leave the 99 on the hills and go searching for the one that strayed?
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How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray?
What Matthew 18:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus uses the example of a shepherd to illustrate God's love and concern for each individual. The shepherd has 100 sheep, and if one goes missing, he prioritizes finding that one lost sheep over staying with the 99. This reflects the idea that every person is valuable to God, and He actively seeks out those who have strayed from Him. The shepherd's actions demonstrate a deep commitment and willingness to go to great lengths to restore the lost. This parable emphasizes the importance of each individual in the eyes of God and highlights His desire for reconciliation and care. It also serves as a reminder to the community about the responsibility to look after one another, especially those who may be struggling or lost in their faith.
How to apply Matthew 18:12 to your life
This verse encourages us to value every individual and to actively seek out those who may feel lost or disconnected. In our communities, we should reach out to those who are struggling, offering support and guidance, just as the shepherd seeks the lost sheep.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 18:12 mean?
Matthew 18:12 illustrates God's love for each individual by comparing it to a shepherd who leaves his 99 sheep to find one that is lost. It emphasizes that every person is valuable to God and highlights His desire to restore those who have strayed.
What is the meaning of the lost sheep in Matthew 18:12?
The lost sheep in Matthew 18:12 represents individuals who have wandered away from God. The verse shows that God actively seeks out those who are lost, demonstrating His commitment to restoring them to a relationship with Him.
How does Matthew 18:12 relate to community responsibility?
Matthew 18:12 encourages communities to care for one another, especially those who may feel lost or disconnected. It reminds us to actively seek out and support individuals who are struggling in their faith.
What themes are present in Matthew 18:12?
Key themes in Matthew 18:12 include God's love, the value of each individual, the importance of seeking the lost, the idea of restoration, and the responsibility of the community to look after one another.
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