Matthew 18:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 18:13
13 And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray.
Chapter Context
Matthew 18 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, love, grace. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-35: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 18:13
13 And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray.
Analysis
And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Jesus's parable of the lost sheep climaxes with this stunning statement about divine joy. The conditional "if so be" (ἐὰν γένηται, ean genētai, "if it happens") acknowledges the search's uncertainty, yet the shepherd persists. When he "find it" (εὕρῃ, heurē), the verb implies successful search after diligent effort—not accidental discovery but purposeful rescue.
"He rejoiceth more" (χαίρει... μᾶλλον, chairei... mallon) describes disproportionate joy—not equal celebration but greater joy over one recovered than ninety-nine safe. This offends human calculation but reveals God's heart. The safe sheep matter, but the shepherd's joy intensifies over the one rescued from danger. This doesn't diminish the ninety-nine's value but highlights recovery's special cause for celebration. The verb χαίρει (rejoices) appears in present tense—ongoing, exuberant joy.
"Than of the ninety and nine which went not astray" (ἢ ἐπὶ τοῖς ἐνενήκοντα ἐννέα τοῖς μὴ πεπλανημένοις, ē epi tois enenēkonta ennea tois mē peplanēmenois) contrasts the wandering one with those who "have not gone astray." The verb πλανάω (planaō) means to wander, go astray, be deceived—describing both physical wandering and spiritual error. This parable teaches God's passionate pursuit of the lost, His joy over repentance (Luke 15:7, 10), and the infinite value of every individual soul. Each person matters supremely to God; none is expendable or insignificant.
Historical Context
This parable appears in Matthew's discourse on church relationships and discipline (Matthew 18), providing theological foundation for pursuing straying members. Luke's parallel (15:3-7) sets it in context of Pharisees criticizing Jesus for receiving sinners. Both contexts reveal God's character: He actively seeks the lost rather than waiting passively. Ancient Near Eastern shepherding involved personal knowledge of each sheep and willingness to risk danger for any that wandered.
The parable addresses the "little ones" (v. 6, 10, 14)—weak believers susceptible to stumbling. The Father's will is "that one of these little ones should perish" (v. 14). Church discipline (v. 15-20) aims at restoration, not merely punishment—pursuing wanderers like the shepherd pursues lost sheep. The early church applied this by excommunicating the unrepentant while praying for their return (1 Corinthians 5:5). The Reformers emphasized God's electing grace that ensures He will recover His chosen sheep—none will be lost (John 6:39, 10:27-29).
Reflection
- How does God's disproportionate joy over recovering one lost sinner challenge your perspective on evangelism and church discipline?
- What does this parable teach about the proper balance between caring for the faithful majority and pursuing the straying minority?
- How should the certainty that the Good Shepherd will find His sheep affect your assurance of salvation and perseverance?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Zephaniah 3:17, James 2:13