How to read the Bible for all its worth

The importance of context in Parables

Parable of the Lost Sheep.

In Luke's gospel this parable functions along with the Lost Coin and Prodigal Son as a word to the Pharisees. The lost sheep is clearly a sinner, whose finding brings joy in heaven. Again, as a word to the Pharisees, it justifies Jesus' acceptance of the outcasts; but when heard by the outcasts it assures them that they are the objects of the loving shepherd's search. In Matthew, the parable is a part of the collection of sayings on relationships within the kingdom. In this new context the same point is being made: God's care for the lost. But here the "lost" are sheep who have "wandered off." In Matthew's context it speaks to the question of what do we do for those "little ones" who are of weak faith, and who tend to go astray. In verses 6-9 Matthew's community is told that no one of them had better be responsible for causing a "little one" to go astray. In verses 10-14 the parable of the Lost Sheep tells, on the other hand,they should seek out the wandering one and love him or her back into the fold. Same parable, same point, but to a brand new audience.