(a) Outline the parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin. [11 marks] (b) In what two ways are these parables significant. [4 marks]

Answer Details

(a) The parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin (Luke 15:1-10)

The tax collectors and sinners were drawing near to hear Jesus, and the Pharisees and scribes grumbled, "This man receives sinners and eats with them." In reply Jesus told these two parables.

The lost sheep: "What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And coming home, he calls together his friends and neighbours, saying, Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost." Jesus added, "Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance."

The lost coin: "What woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it? And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbours, saying, Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost." Jesus concluded, "Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents."

(b) Two ways these parables are significant

• They reveal the seeking love of God, who actively goes after the lost sinner and does not wait passively, showing that every individual is precious to Him.
• They teach that there is great joy in heaven over the repentance and recovery of even one sinner, and they answer the critics by justifying Jesus' welcome of tax collectors and sinners.