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The Lost Sheep
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This chapter explores the first of three stories Jesus tells in response to the Pharisees’ complaint: “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”
The Pharisees’ Complaint
The context matters. Jesus didn’t tell this parable to his followers. He told it to his critics — the religious leaders who were furious that he was eating with sinners.
The Shepherd’s Response
In Middle Eastern culture, a shepherd who lost a sheep bore the shame of the entire community. Dr. Bailey’s research shows that the shepherd’s search was not optional — it was an obligation to the village.
Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn't he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?
— Luke 15:4-7
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