The Security Of The Sheep In The Hand Of The Shepherd

THE SECURITY OF THE SHEEP IN THE HAND OF THE SHEPHERD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 10:22-30

Supporting Texts: Psalm 23:1-6, Isaiah 40:11, Romans 8:38-39, 1 Peter 2:25, Revelation 7:17

INTRODUCTION:

This passage captures one of the most profound truths about our relationship with Christ—the eternal security and protection of those who belong to Him. At a time of scepticism and spiritual blindness, Jesus affirms that true believers are His sheep, and they are known, guided, and preserved by Him.

While some questioned His identity, Jesus pointed to His works and words as evidence of His divine authority. But He also revealed a critical truth: not all can receive this revelation unless they belong to Him. To be His sheep means to be recognised by the Shepherd, to follow His voice, and to enjoy His eternal protection.

This message is a reminder and assurance that no matter the storms, attacks, or trials of life, if we belong to Jesus, we are safe in His hands. Let us explore what it means to be His sheep and the implications of being held in the hands of the Good Shepherd.

1. HIS SHEEP HEAR HIS VOICE

Divine communication is one of the marks of belonging to Christ.

a) Believers have spiritual sensitivity

(John 10:27) – “My sheep hear my voice…”

b) God speaks clearly to those who belong to Him

(Isaiah 30:21) – You will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way…”

c) We must train our ears to discern His voice

(Hebrews 5:14) – Those who by reason of use have their senses exercised.

d) Hearing His voice leads to trust and obedience

(Deuteronomy 28:1–2) – Blessings come when we hearken diligently to His voice.

Biblical Example: Samuel heard God's voice as a child and responded, “Speak, Lord” (1 Samuel 3:1–10).

2. HE KNOWS HIS SHEEP PERSONALLY

Divine relationship is not general; it is personal.

a) Jesus has intimate knowledge of each of His sheep

(John 10:27) – “I know them…”

b) He understands our fears, burdens, and weaknesses

(Hebrews 4:15) – He is touched with the feelings of our infirmities.

c) Being known by God is more important than being known by men

(Galatians 4:9) – Now that you are known by God.

d) This knowledge means we are not forgotten or forsaken

(Isaiah 49:15–16) – I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.

Biblical Example: Zacchaeus was singled out by name from the crowd (Luke 19:1–5).

3. HE GIVES ETERNAL LIFE AND ASSURANCE

Divine life cannot be destroyed.

a) Salvation is not temporary—it is eternal

(John 10:28) – “I give unto them eternal life.”

b) Eternal life starts now, not just after death

(John 17:3) – Eternal life is knowing God and Jesus Christ.

c) There is no fear of perishing for the true believer

(Romans 8:1) – No condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.

d) This life is secured not by our efforts but by His grace

(Ephesians 2:8–9) – By grace are ye saved through faith.

Biblical Example: The thief on the cross received the promise of paradise (Luke 23:39–43).

4. NO ONE CAN SNATCH THEM OUT OF HIS HAND

Divine protection is impenetrable.

a) Believers are doubly secured—by Jesus and the Father

(John 10:29) – “No man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.”

b) God’s power is greater than any enemy

(Isaiah 54:17) – No weapon formed against you shall prosper.

c) We may face battles, but we are not defeated

(2 Corinthians 4:8–9) – Cast down, but not destroyed.

d) The security of our salvation should inspire confidence

(Romans 8:38–39) – Nothing can separate us from the love of God.

Biblical Example: Daniel was protected in the lion’s den—no harm came near him (Daniel 6:16–23).

CONCLUSION:

In a world filled with uncertainty, fear, and spiritual confusion, there is a place of rest for the believer: the hand of the Shepherd. His sheep hear Him, are known by Him, are given eternal life, and are safe in His everlasting hands. This is the blessed assurance of the saints.

We must not only enjoy this truth but live in its reality daily. Let us stay close to the Shepherd, hear His voice, and follow Him with confidence. There is no better place to be than in the hands of the One who never fails.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me to recognise and respond to Your voice daily.

2. Father, keep me secure in the palm of Your hand.

3. Let no distraction or deception draw me away from Your path.

4. Thank You, Lord, for the gift of eternal life in Christ Jesus.

5. I receive grace to follow the Shepherd wherever He leads.