The Parable of the Lost Sheep
1 All 15:1–7 Mt 18:12–14 the tax collectors 15:1 Mt 11:19; Lk 5:29 and sinners were approaching to listen to him. 2 And the Pharisees and scribes were complaining, "This man welcomes sinners 15:2 Lk 5:30; 7:39; Ac 11:3; Gl 2:12 and eats with them."
20 So he got up and went to his father. But while the son was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion. 15:20 Mt 9:36; Mk 1:41; Lk 7:13; 10:33He ran, threw his arms around his neck, and kissed 15:20 Gn 29:13; 33:4; 45:15; 2Sm 14:33him.
24 because this son of mine was dead and is alive again; 15:24 Lk 15:32; Rm 11:15; 2Co 4:10; Col 2:13he was lost and is found! ’ So they began to celebrate.
32 But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ "