New Testament · Parable
The Lost Sheep Bible Story
Jesus tells of a shepherd who searches for one lost sheep and rejoices when it is found.
Short Bible Story Preview
Jesus asked people to imagine a shepherd with one hundred sheep. When one sheep wandered away, the shepherd did not shrug and forget it. He went searching through the hills until he found the one that was lost.
When he found it, he carried it home with joy. Jesus said there is joy in heaven when a sinner turns back to God. The story is short, but children remember its picture of being searched for and carried.
This parable pairs beautifully with the Prodigal Son because both show God's love for the lost. It is a gentle page for younger children and a strong comfort page for parents.
Artwork in This Story
The Good Shepherd
- Artist
- Bernhard Plockhorst
- Date
- 19th century
- Source
- Wikimedia Commons Source
- Rights
- Public domain artwork reproduction
The shepherd carrying the sheep makes the parable's comfort immediately understandable.
Key Lesson
God does not forget the one who wanders. He seeks, finds, and rejoices.
Parent Questions
- What did the shepherd do when one sheep was lost?
- How did he bring it home?
- Why does Jesus say heaven rejoices?
- How does this story show God's care?
