SECURE IN THE HAND OF THE SHEPHERD
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: John 10:22-30
John 10:28–29 (KJV)
"And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand."
Supporting Texts: Psalm 23:1–6, Romans 8:35–39, Isaiah 40:11, John 6:37, 1 Peter 1:3–5
INTRODUCTION:
This passage opens at the Feast of Dedication in Jerusalem, where Jesus is questioned about His identity as the Messiah. His response reveals profound truths about His relationship with His followers. He affirms that His sheep know His voice, follow Him, and are eternally secure in His care.
The believer's relationship with Christ is not built on fear or uncertainty but on the solid rock of divine security. Jesus’ words in this passage provide assurance that we are not just known by Him—we are also kept by Him.
Let us examine the comforting realities of being in the hand of the Shepherd.
1. JESUS KNOWS HIS OWN
a) The Shepherd recognises every sheep by name.
Jesus is not distant; He is personally involved (John 10:27).
b) Relationship, not religion, defines this connection.
His sheep hear His voice and follow Him willingly.
c) God sees your journey and your struggles.
He doesn't forget His sheep (Isaiah 49:15–16).
d) The knowledge of God about you is intimate and unchanging.
You are not lost in the crowd.
Biblical Example: Jesus called Zacchaeus by name and entered his house (Luke 19:5).
2. ETERNAL LIFE IS A PRESENT POSSESSION
a) Eternal life starts the moment we believe in Christ.
It is not only a future promise but a current reality (John 3:36).
b) The life Jesus gives is incorruptible and everlasting.
It is not dependent on human effort.
c) We live daily with the assurance of eternal security.
Salvation is by grace, not by performance.
d) You are alive in Christ—forever.
This truth should stir confidence and worship.
Biblical Example: The thief on the cross was granted paradise instantly (Luke 23:43).
3. NO ONE CAN SNATCH YOU FROM HIS HAND
a) Divine protection surrounds the believer.
God's grip on you is stronger than any enemy’s attack.
b) The security of the sheep rests on the strength of the Shepherd.
His hand is mighty to save and to keep.
c) Satan may try, but he cannot pluck you from God’s hand.
You are not easily shaken when rooted in Christ.
d) This promise is your spiritual insurance.
Rest in the divine covering you have.
Biblical Example: Job was protected by a hedge from God (Job 1:10).
4. THE FATHER AND SON WORK TOGETHER TO KEEP YOU
a) Jesus and the Father are one in purpose and power.
Unity in the Godhead guarantees your security.
b) What Jesus started, the Father completes.
He never abandons His work (Philippians 1:6).
c) You are not alone—you are kept by divine agreement.
Heaven has sealed your identity.
d) This combined assurance gives believers boldness.
God’s power backs your salvation.
Biblical Example: Daniel was preserved in the lions’ den by divine power (Daniel 6:22).
5. BELIEVERS MUST LISTEN AND FOLLOW
a) Knowing Jesus' voice is the key to safety.
Discernment comes by relationship.
b) Following the Shepherd leads to green pastures.
Obedience positions you for blessing.
c) Don’t let noise drown out His voice.
Stay close to the Shepherd’s leading.
d) Walking with Him daily affirms your identity.
True sheep follow—daily and joyfully.
Biblical Example: Mary sat at Jesus’ feet to hear His word (Luke 10:39).
CONCLUSION:
The believer’s security is not in man but in the Messiah. Jesus made it clear: you are known, loved, saved, and secured. No one can undo what God has done. He knows you, He leads you, and He keeps you.
In a world full of fear, confusion, and uncertainty, let this truth ring loud: You are safe in the hands of the Shepherd.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, thank You for the eternal life You have given me.
2. Keep me from wandering away from Your voice.
3. Strengthen my confidence in Your saving power.
4. Deliver me from every voice that contradicts Your word.
5. Help me walk daily in the assurance of my salvation.
