Crystal Clear Very Understandable: Bible Analogies

Chapter 6: The Little Flock of Israel

When Jesus Christ walked the earth, His doctrine about the Kingdom on earth resonated with many, yet not everyone who heard Him believed what He had to say. In fact, some of the most influential religious leaders of the time, such as the Pharisees and Sadducees, despised and hated Him. They were more focused on their traditions and maintaining their power than on the truth that Jesus preached. Because of this division, in the eyes of God, there were essentially two groups among the Jews during the arrival of Christ, as recorded in the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John: Faithful Israel and Unbelieving Israel. This is why the Apostle Paul states "For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel" in Romans 9:6.

The faithful group, whom Jesus lovingly referred to as the "Little Flock," is a significant theme in the New Testament. In Luke 12:32, Jesus says:

"Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom."

Here, Jesus expresses His affection for this faithful group, identifying them as the ones who genuinely trusted in Him and His teachings. The term "Little Flock" conveys both a sense of intimacy and a reminder that, compared to the larger population, those who truly believed were few in number. Despite the opposition they faced from the religious elite, the Little Flock remained steadfast in their faith.

In John 10:1-8, Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd, saying:

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep."

Later, He continues to explain how His sheep hear His voice and follow Him, symbolizing those faithful believers who recognize and trust Him. They are the ones who truly understand His message and are receptive to the salvation He offers. Through these passages, we learn that Jesus, as the Great Shepherd, watches over His Little Flock with great care and purpose.

It's essential to grasp the distinction between these two groups because it reflects deeper themes in the story of salvation. The Little Flock represented those who responded with faith to God's call, accepting Jesus as their Messiah. In contrast, Unbelieving Israel, which included many influential leaders, rejected Him. This division illustrates how faith is key to understanding one's relationship with God.

 Today, believers in Christ are seen as His Body, known as the Body of Christ. In this beautiful analogy, just as a body has many parts working together, every believer plays an important role in the church. In this spiritual structure, Jesus is the Head, guiding and directing His followers with wisdom and love.

So, while the Little Flock represented the faithful followers of Christ during His earthly ministry, the concept of His Body encompasses all believers today for a heavenly ministry. There is a difference in purpose and in audience, but the same Lord over all.