More Than Just a Story - the Book of JohnNäide

Jesus often uses the illustration of sheep and shepherds in the Bible. One of the most powerful examples of this is found in John 10. In this chapter, Jesus draws a parallel between sheep and their shepherd and Himself as our Shepherd.

It is well known that sheep need a shepherd to guide them when they stray from the fold. In fact, one of the primary responsibilities of shepherds in the Old Testament was to keep the sheep corralled and close together to protect them from predators. In John 10, Jesus explains that we, too, need a shepherd when we stray; otherwise, we make ourselves vulnerable to the attacks of the world.

In the Old Testament, a shepherd would go so far as to lay down his life for his sheep and even risk everything to rescue just one that had gone astray. As our Shepherd, Jesus laid down His life for us when He died on the cross (John 10:11). He also pursues His lost sheep, going to great lengths to bring them back (Luke 15:4-7).

Sometimes, sheep are perceived as lacking intelligence, but a closer look at their behavior shows they are actually very capable—they recognize the voice of their shepherd. However, they only learn to recognize that voice after spending time with their shepherd and becoming familiar with it.

We, too, can recognize the voice of our Shepherd—the Good Shepherd—but only when we spend time with Him. Prayer allows us to do this. Like sheep, we are all in need of a shepherd. The good news? Jesus has already made a way for us to come to Him, know Him, and recognize His voice.

1. What do sheep and shepherds have in common with us as God’s children?
2. When you have gone astray, what has brought you back into relationship with God?
3. What do you need to do in order to know His voice?