The New Testament Lost Sheep of the House of Israel

by Stephen Otto

The title "House of Israel" was first used in reference to the united kingdom of Israel. Later, during the divided kingdom, the northern tribes retained the title "house of Israel," while the southern tribes of Judah and Benjamin became known as the "House of Judah." Afterward, the divided House of Israel was sent into captivity and became known as "the lost sheep of the House of Israel." 

Later, during New Testament times, Yeshua declared, "...I was not sent but to the lost sheep of the house of Israel" (Matt. 15:24). Since Yeshua "...came to His own, and His own did not receive Him" (John 1:11), His statement that  He "... was not sent but to the lost sheep of the house of Israel" proves that He was sent to the Jews, who weren't lost physically, but spiritually (Jer. 50:6).