New Testament
Matthew 18:13
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I tell you the truth: if he finds it, he's happier about that one sheep than about the 99 that never wandered off.
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And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray.
What Matthew 18:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus uses the metaphor of a shepherd and his sheep to illustrate God's love and concern for each individual. The shepherd represents God, who values every person, especially those who have strayed from the right path. When the shepherd finds the lost sheep, he experiences great joy, emphasizing that the recovery of one lost soul is more significant than the safety of the many who have not gone astray. This highlights the personal relationship God desires with each individual and His willingness to seek out those who are lost. The joy of finding the lost sheep symbolizes the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, showing that every person matters to God, and His love is unconditional and persistent. This teaching encourages believers to reflect on their own attitudes towards those who have wandered away from faith, urging them to seek reconciliation and restoration with love and compassion.
How to apply Matthew 18:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to value every individual and to actively seek out those who may have strayed from their faith. We should approach them with love and compassion, understanding that their return is a cause for great joy. Our actions can help restore relationships and bring people back to a community of faith.
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 18:13 mean?
Matthew 18:13 illustrates God's deep love for each individual, showing that He values every person, especially those who have strayed. The verse emphasizes that the joy of recovering one lost soul is greater than the safety of many who have not gone astray.
What is the meaning of the shepherd and sheep metaphor in Matthew 18:13?
In Matthew 18:13, the shepherd represents God, and the sheep symbolize individuals. This metaphor highlights God's concern for each person, particularly those who have wandered away from faith, and His joy in bringing them back.
How does Matthew 18:13 relate to repentance?
Matthew 18:13 relates to repentance by showing that when a lost person returns to faith, it brings immense joy to God. This highlights the significance of turning back to Him and the celebration that follows such a decision.
What themes are present in Matthew 18:13?
Key themes in Matthew 18:13 include God's love for individuals, the worth of each person, joy in recovery, the importance of repentance, and the call to show compassion to those who have strayed.
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