What Is the Parable of the Lost Coin — In Biblical Context
Jesus told of a woman who diligently searched for one lost coin and rejoiced when she found it—illustrating the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents.
Jesus told of a woman who diligently searched for one lost coin and rejoiced when she found it—illustrating the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents.
"Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth." — Luke 15:10 (KJV)
The Biblical Context
In Luke 15:8-10, Jesus told of a woman with ten silver coins who lost one. She lit a candle, swept the house, and searched carefully until she found it. When she did, she called her friends and neighbors to rejoice with her. Jesus applied the parable: 'Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.' This is the second of three 'lost' parables in Luke 15 (alongside the lost sheep and the prodigal son), each emphasizing the extraordinary value God places on every individual and His relentless pursuit of those who are lost.
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, Luke 15:10, sits inside Luke 15. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth."
Supporting Passages
"Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it?"
Explore this question from another angle
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
What Is the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant?
Sin & Salvation
What Is the Parable of the Lost Coin?
Life of Jesus
The Parable of the Lost Coin
Luke 15:10 • Forgiveness & Grace
What Is the Unforgivable Sin?
Sin & Salvation
God Promises Victory Over Sin
Bible promises that you can overcome sin through Christ's power.
God Promises to Forgive Your Sins
Bible promises about complete forgiveness, cleansing, and the removal of guilt t
Keep Going
Continue Exploring Scripture
You've found one resource — here are more ways to go deeper into God's Word.
Today's Verse
Start each day with a hand-picked KJV verse and reflection.
Verses by Topic
Find what the Bible says about love, anxiety, strength, and 500+ more topics.
Bible Miracles
Discover the signs and wonders of God recorded in Scripture.
Angels & Spiritual Warfare
Angels, demons, and the armor of God — what the KJV really teaches about the unseen battle.
Bible Genealogies & Family Trees
Visual KJV family trees — the line of Jesus, the sons of Noah, the twelve tribes, and more.
Women of the Bible
Eve, Sarah, Ruth, Esther, Mary — the matriarchs, prophetesses, queens, and disciples of Scripture.