The Life and Ministry of Jesus
For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost. “What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying? And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish. Matthew 18:11–14
These words are meant for the encouragement of all true Christians, and not for little children only. The context in which they are found with the parable of the hundred sheep and one that went astray seems to place this beyond doubt. They are meant to show us that our Lord Jesus is a Shepherd who cares tenderly for every soul committed to his charge.
The youngest, the weakest, the sickliest of his flock is as dear to him as the strongest: they will never perish. No one will ever snatch them out of his hand. He will lead them gently through the wilderness of this world; he will not drive them hard a single day, lest any die. He will carry them through every difficulty; he will defend them against every enemy. 1
Personal Encouragement
Fall in love with Your Shepherd again. Thank Him for all the ways that He cares for you.
For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10
Even though you were lost, you were never really lost from Him.
A Prayer
Lord, thank You for coming after me, when I was running away from You.
1. Ryle, J. C. (1993). Matthew. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
