Exegetical Brief: Luke 15:7 - Who Are the Ninety-Nine?

Abstract

Why did Jesus finish his parable about finding the lost sheep with his words about the ninety-nine? Who are the ninety-nine? Was Jesus describing the Pharisees as he closed out the parable of the lost sheep? Was he speaking ironically about the fact that in their own minds they were righteous and thus felt they had no need for repentance? Professor Zell examines the evidence in this brief and shows that Jesus is encouraging those around him to be joyful when sinners repent.