Van Eck, Ernest2011-11-142011-11-142011-11-04Van Eck, E., 2011, ‘In the kingdom everybody has enough – A social-scientific and realistic reading of the parable of the lost sheep’, (Lk 15:4–6)’, HTS Teologiese Studies/Theological Studies 67(3), Art. #1067, 10 pages. http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/hts.v67i3.10670259-942210.4102/hts.v67i3.1067http://hdl.handle.net/2263/17566This article presents a social-scientific and realistic interpretation of the parable of the lost sheep (Lk 15:4–6). Attention is given to the history of the interpretation of the parable, its integrity and authenticity, and verisimilitude. It is argued that the Lukan-version (Q 15:4–6) of the parable represents the earliest layer of the historical Jesus-tradition. Specific attention is given to the social and economic registers presupposed in the parable, as well as certain cultural norms and values of the first-century Mediterranean world in which Jesus told the parable. The conclusion reached is that the parable exemplifies several aspects of the kingdom of God, aspects that are also present in several other parables that Jesus told about the kingdom.en© 2011. The Authors. Licensee: AOSIS OpenJournals. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.Realistic interpretationLuke 15:4–6Lost sheep (Parable)Bible -- N.T. -- Luke XV, 4-6 -- Social scientific criticismKingdom of God -- Biblical teachingArticle