this parable. It had already been uttered in Matthew 18:12-14 with another object (Luke 15:11), and with. different application (Luke 15:14). It is now repeated, later, under different circumstances (Luke 15:1; Luke 15:2), in combination with two other similar parables, with quite another application (verses: 6, 7; 9, 10; 23, 24). Hence the change of certain words.
unto. Greek. pros. App-104.
them. This determines the scope of the three parables.