Our Great Shepherd

"Christ's flock is made up of sheep that not only listen to their shepherd, but are also able to recognize his voice, to follow him, faithfully and with full awareness, on the pastures of eternal life."  -Pope John XXIII

Shepherds played an important role in ancient nomadic societies. Therefore, it's no surprise that the shepherd is mentioned so often is Scripture. Let it be noted that it was a job not exclusively held by men. Women were shepherds, as well (Genesis 29:6).

Being a shepherd was a dangerous job with no shortage of hardship. Food was scarce, and shelter was a luxury. The ancestors of the Jews during the patriarchal age were of this type; their history rich and full in the pastoral life.

Interstingly, in Old Testament prophecy the promise of a Shepherd is revealed. But, this wasn't a typical shepherd that was being foretold, as we shall see.

This Shepherd would: bring good news to the cities of Judah (Isaiah 40:9-11); he would gather Israel as a shepherd does his flock (Jeremiah 31:10); and would save them (Ezekiel 34:22).

It is not until the New Testament that Jesus is revealed as that Shepherd.  John 10: 14-16 tells us He is the Good Shepherd; 1 Peter 5:4 says that He is the Chief Shepherd; and Hebrews 13:20 calls Him the Great Shepherd.

So what can we learn from Scripture in regards to Jesus our Shepherd? I will call attention to some important items here. Let's first talk about the blessings  we receive from Jesus our Shepherd.

We know that He gave his life for His sheep (Zechariah 13:7; Matthew 25:31), as foretold in the O.T. Jesus told His disciples that He would do this (John 10: 11, 15).

By doing this for His sheep, He is able to offer them eternal life (John 10:28; 1 John 5:11-13). We know that He now cares for us (John 10:11; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; Ephesians 2:11-22; John 10:14, 27).

Thus, these are some of the benefits we receive as a result of Jesus' blessings. But, what are His expectations from us in return? I've listed some of our responsibilities to Him below.

We are expected to follow His voice (John 10:2-3); and, in our current times, those of His apostles (John 13:20; Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians14:37). We should also work to maintain the unity of His flock, or the one body (John 10:16; Ephesians 4:4; John 17:20-23; Ephesians 2:13-16).

We can do this presently by: not following false teachers (John 10:5; 2 John 9:18); preserving the unity of the Spirit in the unity of peace (Ephesians 4:1-3).

Without question, the promises are wonderful for those who follow Jesus our Shepherd (Revelation 7:13-17). However, there are some precautions that must be taken in order to be aware of, and avoid, possible pitfalls.

Jesus issued warnings about some who are not His sheep; they were not followers of His voice (John 10:26-27). Some do slip by, but they will one day be cast out of the flock (Matthew 13:41:43; John 15:1-2).

And on that glorious day to come the sheep and the goats will be separated (Matthew 25:31-34; 41). What side will you find yourself on? This hinges on whether we satisfy our work as His sheep, or not.

Scriptures: Psalm 23:1-3; John 3:18; 1 John 2:4; Revelation 1:17; Jeremiah 50:6

Prayer: O Lord, may Your Spirit lead us to grow more aware of Your presence in our lives, not only today, but every day, amen.

May the Lord bless,

Shawna