JESUS THE GOOD SHEPHERD
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: John 10:11
Key Verse:
“I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.” – John 10:11
Supporting Texts: Psalm 23:1-6; Ezekiel 34:11-16; Isaiah 40:11; Hebrews 13:20-21; 1 Peter 2:25
INTRODUCTION:
The picture of a shepherd caring for his sheep beautifully illustrates the loving and protective nature of Jesus Christ towards His followers. In biblical times, a shepherd did more than feed his flock; he guided them, protected them from wild beasts, and ensured none went astray. Likewise, Jesus, our Good Shepherd, tenderly watches over us, meets our needs, and defends us from danger.
The word “Good” in “Good Shepherd” implies not only moral excellence but divine perfection; Jesus is the ideal Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep. Unlike hirelings who flee in times of danger, Jesus stands by His own even in the darkest valleys of life.
As the Good Shepherd, Jesus reveals His heart of compassion, His voice of direction, His hands of provision, and His power of protection. When we follow His leading, we walk in peace, safety, and abundance.
1. JESUS KNOWS HIS SHEEP PERSONALLY
Jesus does not lead us as a crowd but as individuals whom He loves and knows intimately.
a) He calls each of His sheep by name (John 10:3). Every believer is personally known and valued by Jesus; He never confuses or forgets any of His own.
b) His sheep recognise His voice (John 10:4). Those who belong to Christ are guided by His Spirit and can discern His voice amidst worldly noise.
c) Jesus knows our needs before we ask (Matthew 6:8). Our Shepherd understands every weakness, pain, and desire of His flock.
d) No one can snatch His sheep from His hand (John 10:28-29). The security of every believer is guaranteed in the strong and loving hands of the Good Shepherd.
Biblical Example:
When Mary Magdalene went to the tomb, she did not recognise the risen Christ until He called her name, “Mary!” Immediately, she knew her Shepherd’s voice (John 20:16).
2. JESUS PROTECTS HIS SHEEP FROM DANGER
The Good Shepherd stands as a shield against every attack and enemy of the flock.
a) He laid down His life for the sheep (John 10:11). Jesus demonstrated ultimate love by sacrificing Himself for our salvation and safety.
b) His presence drives away fear (Psalm 23:4). Even in the valley of the shadow of death, His rod and staff comfort and defend us.
c) The Shepherd fights for His sheep (1 Samuel 17:34-37). Just as David defended his father’s flock, Jesus fights unseen battles on our behalf.
d) His blood is our covering and defence (Revelation 12:11). The cross is our assurance that no weapon formed against us shall prosper.
Biblical Example:
David, as a shepherd, risked his life to rescue his sheep from the lion and the bear, a foreshadow of Jesus who faced death itself to save His people (1 Samuel 17:34-36).
3. JESUS PROVIDES FOR EVERY NEED OF HIS SHEEP
A true shepherd ensures that his flock lacks nothing; so does Jesus for all who follow Him.
a) He leads us to green pastures (Psalm 23:2). Jesus satisfies our souls with His Word and refreshes us with His Spirit.
b) He restores our souls (Psalm 23:3). When life’s pressures weigh us down, He renews our strength and restores our joy.
c) He prepares a table before us (Psalm 23:5). In times of opposition, He ensures that we are still nourished and honoured.
d) He supplies according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19). Our Shepherd’s resources never run dry; His provision covers every area of life.
Biblical Example:
When the multitude followed Jesus in the wilderness, He had compassion on them and miraculously fed them with loaves and fishes, proving Himself as the provider of His flock (John 6:5-13).
4. JESUS LEADS HIS SHEEP IN THE PATH OF LIFE
The Good Shepherd not only protects and provides; He also guides His flock along the right paths.
a) His voice brings direction (Isaiah 30:21). When we are confused, His gentle whisper shows us the way to walk.
b) He leads us in paths of righteousness (Psalm 23:3). His Spirit directs our choices to ensure we remain in His will.
c) He restores those who stray (Luke 15:4-7). When we wander, He searches, finds, and lovingly brings us back home.
d) He leads us into eternal life (John 10:27-28). The final destination of His guidance is everlasting fellowship with God.
Biblical Example:
When Peter strayed after denying Jesus, the Good Shepherd restored him with forgiveness and recommissioned him for service (John 21:15-17).
5. JESUS LOVES HIS SHEEP FAITHFULLY
The heart of the Good Shepherd beats with unchanging love for His flock.
a) His love is sacrificial (Romans 5:8). He proved His love by dying for us even when we were undeserving.
b) His love is constant and unfailing (Jeremiah 31:3). Earthly love may fade, but the love of the Good Shepherd is eternal.
c) His love corrects and comforts (Hebrews 12:6). Even His discipline is an expression of His care to keep us safe from harm.
d) His love unites the flock (John 10:16). Through His love, we are joined together as one fold under one Shepherd.
Biblical Example:
Jesus’ love for Peter did not end with his failure. Instead, He restored and strengthened him to feed His sheep, demonstrating unending love (John 21:15-17).
CONCLUSION:
Jesus, the Good Shepherd, is ever near to His flock. He knows your name, understands your struggles, and is committed to your well-being. Under His care, you are protected from harm, provided for in every need, and guided in the path of righteousness.
The world may offer false shepherds who exploit or abandon their followers, but Jesus never leaves His own. His love is eternal, His guidance sure, and His provision abundant. Follow His voice, stay within His fold, and you will experience peace, safety, and satisfaction all the days of your life.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for being my Good Shepherd who never abandons His sheep.
2. O Lord, help me to recognise and follow Your voice daily.
3. Lord, protect me from every danger and deliver me from the hand of the enemy.
4. Shepherd of my soul, lead me in the path of righteousness and peace.
5. Lord Jesus, meet all my needs according to Your riches in glory.
6. Father, restore every area of my life that has been wounded or lost.
7. O Lord, silence every strange voice that seeks to mislead me from Your path.
8. Good Shepherd, surround me and my family with Your divine protection.
9. Lord, fill me with Your love so I can reflect Your care to others.
10. Father, keep me steadfast in Your fold till the end of my days.
