The Good Shepherd and His Sheep

Summary

• Jesus described Himself as the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep. He was not a hired hand who would run away when the wolf attacked the sheep.
• He asserted that His sheep recognised His voice. They would follow Him, as He led them to safety and abundance.
• Jesus also declared Himself as the gate for the sheep pen, offering salvation and sustenance to all who would enter through Him.
• The Jews were divided over His teachings. Some accused Him of being demon-possessed, while others treasured His words and actions.

Reflect

1. What does Jesus’ description of the Good Shepherd teach you about His character and relationship with His followers?

2. Jesus affirms that we can hear His voice and follow Him. Are you able to hear His voice? If not, how can you sharpen your spiritual ears? (Jude vv. 20-21)

3. Are there areas in your life where you are following other "voices" instead of Jesus’ voice? How can you refocus on Him?

Watch

Videos used with permission by Michael Hoff

Some salient points we can learn from Michael Hoff:

• Jesus as the Good Shepherd: He brings abundant life and leads His sheep with His voice, singing over them and inviting them into a relationship of trust and recognition.
• Prescription for Abundance: The path to abundance requires surrendering certain freedom to Jesus. As we do so, He leads us into a broad, joyful and abundant place in God’s kingdom.
• Not Authoritarian Leadership: Jesus' leadership is not top-down or authoritarian. Instead, it is relational, characterised by guidance and protection, as Jesus leads us with His voice.

Reflect

4. Do you have certain fears or concerns right now? Like a sheep, how can you trust the Shepherd to protect and provide for you?

Closing Prayer

Thank Jesus for being the Good Shepherd who knows you by name and leads you into abundant life. Ask for spiritual ears to hear His voice and trust His guidance, especially in challenging seasons.