12 Bible Verses About The Lost Sheep

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
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Bible verses about the lost sheep

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about the lost sheep:

1. Matthew 18:12 – “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?”
2. Luke 15:4 – “What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?”
3. Luke 15:6 – “And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.”
4. Luke 15:7 – “I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.”
5. Ezekiel 34:16 – “I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment.”
6. 1 Peter 2:25 – “For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.”

7. Psalm 119:176 – “I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy commandments.”
8. Isaiah 53:6 – “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.”
9. Jeremiah 50:6 – “My people hath been lost sheep: their shepherds have caused them to go astray, they have turned them away on the mountains: they have gone from mountain to hill, they have forgotten their restingplace.”
10. Matthew 10:6 – “But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”
11. Matthew 15:24 – “But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”
12. John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.”

What does the bible say about the lost sheep?

The Bible uses the metaphor of a lost sheep to symbolize individuals who have strayed from their faith or righteousness.

It emphasizes the importance of seeking out and rescuing these lost souls, showing compassion and forgiveness towards them.

The parable of the lost sheep also highlights the value of each individual in the eyes of God, who rejoices when even one lost soul is found and brought back into the fold.

It teaches believers to actively seek out and care for those who are lost or struggling, demonstrating love and mercy as God does for all his children.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about the lost sheep?

1. Luke 15 – This chapter contains the parable of the lost sheep, where Jesus tells the story of a shepherd who leaves his 99 sheep to search for the one that is lost. This chapter emphasizes God’s love and care for each individual, no matter how lost or insignificant they may feel.

2. Matthew 18 – In this chapter, Jesus teaches about the importance of seeking out and restoring those who have gone astray, using the analogy of a shepherd leaving his flock to find the one lost sheep. This chapter emphasizes the value of each individual in the eyes of God and the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness.

3. Ezekiel 34 – This chapter in the Old Testament speaks of God as the Good Shepherd who cares for His flock, seeking out the lost and bringing them back to safety. It emphasizes God’s compassion and faithfulness towards those who have strayed, offering hope and restoration to all who are lost.

Ideas and concepts related to the lost sheep that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.’

1. Shepherd: In the Bible, God is often referred to as a shepherd who cares for and protects his flock. In the story of the lost sheep, the shepherd leaves the 99 sheep to search for the one that is lost, demonstrating God’s love and concern for each individual.

2. Repentance: The concept of repentance is central to the story of the lost sheep, as the sheep strays from the flock and then returns to the shepherd. In the Bible, repentance is emphasized as a necessary step towards reconciliation with God and restoration of one’s relationship with Him.

3. Forgiveness: The shepherd in the story of the lost sheep forgives the wayward sheep for straying and welcomes it back into the fold. Similarly, the Bible teaches about the importance of forgiveness, both from God towards humanity and from individuals towards one another.

4. Redemption: The lost sheep is redeemed and brought back to safety by the shepherd. In the Bible, redemption is a key theme, highlighting God’s plan to save and restore humanity through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

5. Grace: The shepherd’s actions towards the lost sheep demonstrate grace, as he shows unmerited favor and compassion towards the wayward animal. In the Bible, grace is described as God’s undeserved love and mercy towards sinners, offering them salvation and forgiveness.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.