The Good Shepherd
The Good Shepherd
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)
Personal Concern
God has many titles for Himself in the Bible, but few, if any, are as warmly personal as “shepherd.” Psalm 23, “The Lord is my shepherd . . .” is one of the most beloved passages in the Bible for good reason—its simple beauty and comfort are perfectly designed to meet the many needs of the human heart. The truth is, we are like sheep in many ways—often confused, helpless, needy, dependent. We need a good shepherd to guide us, protect us, provide for us, and sacrifice for us. And that’s exactly the picture the Bible paints of God the Father in Psalm 23 and other passages like Isaiah 40:11: “He protects His flock like a shepherd; He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them in the fold of His garment. He gently leads those that are nursing.” What a gracious heavenly Father we have!
Man on a Mission
Jesus calls Himself “the good shepherd.” This designation is in stark contrast to the religious leaders whom He refers to as the “hired man” (John 10:12). The hired man, having no real interest in the sheep, runs at the first sign of trouble. Jesus, on the other hand, “lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). Jesus knew His mission. He knew the cost He would have to pay to secure the lives of His sheep. And He was willing to pay it for us. He is the Good Shepherd.
Bottom Line
Let the knowledge of God’s personal care for you give you both comfort and great hope.