Jesus Proved He Is The Good Shepherd

What Did Jesus Do?

“The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
John 10.11

There are shepherds, and then there are shepherds. But there is only one Good Shepherd. Some are in the sheep business simply to earn a living, they are, if you will, hired hands (John 10.12). When sheep are nothing more than a paycheck to you, you are going to draw a line when it comes to caring for them, say, when a hungry wolf comes prowling. Then it's, “Every man, and sheep, for himself!” It is not a big deal to the hired hand to lose someone else's sheep, there are always other flocks you can go and get paid to watch until it gets too costly for you to remain with the sheep. Then it's again, “Good luck, sheep. It's been a blast, see you.” And off the hired hand goes again, and again.

In sharp and utter contrast, the Good Shepherd is with the sheep through thick and thin, night and day, regardless of any and all peril. The difference is, the sheep, well, they are His sheep. Bought and paid for with the Good Shepherd's own blood. That's right, the Good Shepherd didn't just talk the talk, he walked the walk, all the way to the cross, where he gave up his life in order that not one of his sheep would be lose theirs (John 10.11). A hired hand cares only for himself, the Good Shepherd cares only for his sheep (John 10.13). The Good Shepherd's sole concern is that his sheep should live, and thrive (John 10.10).

Pastors are often referred to as “shepherds” of their congregation. Though I served three different congregations as pastor, I must admit I was not much of a shepherd. I believe I was much more like a ram. I was, really just a sheep myself. Oh, I love the Good Shepherd, and I'd follow him anywhere. And, using my “horns” I'd butt the sheep from time to time to keep them in line. I'd try and lead them as I sought to follow the Good Shepherd. And, when I felt the flock threatened I'd put my head down and charge down the enemy with my horns in, if you'll excuse the expression, ramming position. But a shepherd? No. If I was I'd still be in one of those pulpits, hanging tough for the sake of the sheep.

In truth, there is one, and only one, Good Shepherd, who really hung tough on the cross of Calvary. The best pastors make absolutely sure that the sheep they look after know this. Even more, they do whatever it takes to make sure the sheep know Him.

Now, here's the thing, there may be only one Good Shepherd, and too many hired hands, but there are a lot of sheep. And, in the end, the Good Shepherd has charged and entrusted every one of his sheep who know, to tell the sheep who don't. He's proved that he is the Good Shepherd. Our job, my fellow sheep, is to spread this, the Good News!

S.D.G.

Jim
www.jimwilkenministries.org
Marion, NC
PS 37.4