The Lost Sheep: Bible Story for Kids

The Shepherd's Joy

Grace
Jesus
Rescue

Bible reference:: Luke 15:1-7; Matthew 18:12-14
Ages:: 3-10
Reading time:: 6 minutes
Pages:: 32

The parable of the lost sheep, told by the lamb who got lost. Bramble likes the Shepherd's feet, the warm wool of the flock, the stone walls of the fold. Then, just before counting time, he sees something on the hillside - and the dark is far bigger than he knew.

Good for: Made a Mistake, Feeling Sad, Feeling Lonely

Read the full illustrated story in the app

The story arc

Four moments that carry the story. Tap any Bible reference to read the passage.

1
The Distraction
Bramble the lamb gets distracted and wanders away from the safety of the flock.
Luke 15:3-4Read the Bible passage
³He told them this parable: ⁴“Which of you men, if you had one hundred sheep and lost one of them, wouldn’t leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that was lost, until he found it?
Luke 15:3-4 (World English Bible, British Edition)
2
Lost in the Dark
Alone in the dark wilderness, Bramble gets stuck in the thorns and cannot save himself.
Luke 15:4Read the Bible passage
⁴“Which of you men, if you had one hundred sheep and lost one of them, wouldn’t leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that was lost, until he found it?
Luke 15:4 (World English Bible, British Edition)
3
The Relentless Search
The Good Shepherd leaves the ninety-nine and marches into the dangerous night to find his lost lamb.
Luke 15:4Read the Bible passage
⁴“Which of you men, if you had one hundred sheep and lost one of them, wouldn’t leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that was lost, until he found it?
Luke 15:4 (World English Bible, British Edition)
4
The Joyful Party
The Shepherd isn't angry! He carries Bramble home and throws a massive party to celebrate.
Luke 15:5-7Read the Bible passage
⁵When he has found it, he carries it on his shoulders, rejoicing. ⁶When he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbours, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ ⁷I tell you that even so there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, than over ninety-nine righteous people who need no repentance.
Luke 15:5-7 (World English Bible, British Edition)

Core truths

GRACE

We don't have to clean ourselves up or find our own way back. God comes looking for us in the dark.

THE GOOD SHEPHERD BADGE

Awarded for trusting that Jesus will always search for you and carry you safely home.

RESCUE

When we make mistakes, God isn't an angry boss waiting to scold us. He is a joyful Savior.

Why it matters

Flips the script from a scolding "don't wander" rule to a beautiful celebration of God's pursuing grace.
Teaches children that they never have to “fix” themselves before Jesus will love and rescue them.
Comforts kids with the truth that when God finds us, He isn't angry—He rejoices over us!