Introduction

Good morning, church family! Today, we're going to explore one of the most beautiful and comforting images of Jesus found in the Scriptures - The Good Shepherd.

In John 10:11, Jesus says,

"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep."

This simple statement reveals so much about the heart of our Savior and the depth of His love for us. Are you ready to dive in and discover the characteristics, commitment, and sacrifice of our Good Shepherd?

Before we do, let's reflect on this quote from A.W. Tozer, "The love of Jesus is so inclusive that it knows no boundaries. At the point where we stop caring and loving, Jesus is still there loving and caring." No matter how far we may stray, the Good Shepherd is always there, loving and caring for us with an unchanging, relentless love.

Now, let's read the full passage, John 10:1-18, to fully understand the context in which Jesus speaks these words:

[Read passage]

Let's open in prayer.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of Your Word and the beautiful image of Jesus as our Good Shepherd. We ask that Your Holy Spirit would open our hearts and minds today to receive the truths You have for us. Help us to understand the characteristics, commitment, and sacrifice of our Good Shepherd, and may our lives be transformed as a result. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

The Characteristics

Jesus refers to Himself as the Good Shepherd, and in doing so, He reveals several aspects of His nature and character that are essential for us to understand.

First and foremost, the Good Shepherd is a loving and caring leader. Jesus' love for His sheep is evident throughout the passage, as He speaks of knowing them by name and leading them to safety and provision. This love is not a distant or detached affection; it is an intimate, personal love that is deeply invested in the well-being of each individual sheep.

The Good Shepherd does not merely watch over His flock from a distance; He is actively involved in their lives, guiding them, protecting them, and providing for their needs. This characteristic of the Good Shepherd is a powerful reminder of the depth of Jesus' love for us, as well as a call for us to love and care for others in the same way.

Another characteristic is His commitment to the safety and well-being of His sheep. In the passage, Jesus contrasts the Good Shepherd with the hired hand, who abandons the sheep when danger approaches. The Good Shepherd, on the other hand, is willing to lay down His life for the sheep, demonstrating the ultimate sacrifice for their protection and salvation.

This willingness to sacrifice for the sake of the sheep is a testament to the Good Shepherd's unwavering commitment to their well-being. It also serves as a reminder of the lengths to which Jesus went to secure our salvation, as He willingly laid down His life on the cross for our sins.

The Good Shepherd is also characterized by His wisdom and discernment. Jesus speaks of the sheep recognizing His voice and following Him because they trust in His guidance. This trust is not misplaced, as the Good Shepherd knows the best path for His sheep and leads them accordingly. He is not swayed by the voices of strangers or the distractions of the world; He remains steadfast in His purpose and direction.

Another important characteristic is His inclusivity. Jesus speaks of having other sheep that are not of the current sheep pen and His desire to bring them into the fold. This statement reveals the Good Shepherd's heart for all people, regardless of their background or circumstances. He does not limit His love and care to a select few; rather, He extends it to all who will listen to His voice and follow Him.

Finally, the Good Shepherd is characterized by His authority. Jesus speaks of having the authority to lay down His life and take it up again, a power that He received from the Father. This authority is not only a testament to Jesus' divine nature but also a reminder of the power and sovereignty that He possesses. As the Good Shepherd, Jesus has the authority to guide, protect, and provide for His sheep, as well as to overcome any obstacles or enemies that may threaten their well-being.

This characteristic of the Good Shepherd serves as a source of comfort and assurance for us, as we can trust in Jesus' power and authority to care for us and lead us through the challenges and trials of life.

The Commitment

Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, is not only committed to caring for His sheep, but He is also dedicated to protecting them, even at the cost of His own life ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO