Have you ever wondered whether you are considered to be among God’s sheep? While Jesus assured us that He searches for the lost sheep, He also warned some people that they are not His sheep.
Understanding Jesus’ Words in the Bible
From a Catholic perspective, understanding the distinction between the “lost sheep” and those Jesus refers to as “not His sheep” requires careful consideration of the context of Scripture and the Church’s teachings on salvation, free will, and God’s universal call to love and repentance.
The Lost Sheep
In the parable of the lost sheep (Luke 15:1-7), Jesus illustrates God’s immense love and mercy, showing that He actively seeks out sinners who have strayed. This parable reflects the universal truth that God’s desire is for all to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). Every sinner is a lost sheep whom God seeks, and no one is beyond His reach when they respond to His grace.
Not My Sheep
In John 10:26-27, Jesus says, “But you do not believe, because you are not My sheep. My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” Here, Jesus is addressing those who persist in rejecting Him and His message. Being “not His sheep” refers to a willful choice to refuse to recognize Him as the Good Shepherd. This phrase doesn’t imply that such people are permanently excluded from His care but highlights their current rejection of His invitation.
Free Will and God’s Love
Catholic teaching emphasizes that God respects human free will. While God extends His love and grace to all, individuals must freely respond to His call. Those who are “not His sheep” are not abandoned by God but rather resist His voice and guidance. They are invited to conversion, but the choice to follow remains theirs.
The Universal Call to Holiness
The Church teaches that no one is beyond redemption. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 605) explains, “There is not, never has been, and never will be a single human being for whom Christ did not suffer.” This reinforces that Jesus’ mission encompasses all, including those who initially resist Him. God continues to call everyone, hoping for their repentance and return.
Does This Mean God Doesn’t Search for Some?
Not at all. God’s searching for the lost sheep reflects His relentless pursuit of every soul. However, His ability to bring someone back depends on their willingness to be found. Those who reject Him are not excluded from His desire to save them, but their response determines the outcome. Ultimately, God’s justice and mercy work together to honor human freedom while continually inviting all to His fold.
In conclusion, the “lost sheep” are those who stray but are open to being found, while those Jesus refers to as “not His sheep” are those who resist His call. Yet, even they are not beyond the reach of His love and mercy if they choose to respond to His voice in the future.