Jesus began his life in association with Shepherds when the angels appeared to the shepherds to announce Jesus’ birth when they were watching their flocks by night, Luke 2:8. It is not by coincidence that the shepherds were among the first to receive the good news. Jesus associated with shepherds right from inception to set the stage for his ministry. The nature of Jesus’ ministry was that of a Shepherd and his sheep and he was and still is the good shepherd.
Good shepherd
Jesus said I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep, John 10:11. He said I am the good shepherd; I know my own and my own know me, John 10:14. Isaiah 43:1 says I have called you by name, you are mine. The emphasis on “the” means there is only one good shepherd and he is the one. Jesus made sure his sheep were fed. He said to Simon Peter, if you love me, feed my sheep, John 21:17. He cleansed his sheep, for example lepers, Matthew 8:3; Luke 17:14; with other healings, Matthew 11:5.
Cleanses his sheep
He washed the feet of his disciples, John 13:12-14. In 1 Corinthians 6:11 we are washed, sanctified and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ in the spirit of our God. Hebrews 10:22 says let us draw near to God with a true heart of faith, hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
Knows the sheep’s danger
Jesus as the good shepherd knows the danger his sheep face. He said I send you out as sheep amidst wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves, Matthew 10:16. He also said I send you out as lambs in the midst of wolves, Luke 10:3. Jesus by the Holy Spirit revealed to Paul who said and no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light, 2 Corinthians 11:14.
Accounts for his sheep
A good shepherd knows how to account for his sheep. In Matthew 15:24 Jesus said I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. In Luke 15:4-6 he asked, which of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. A good shepherd rejoices with others when his sheep is free from danger.
Comforts his sheep
The good shepherd gives comfort to his sheep. 2 Corinthians 1:4 says that the Lord comforts us in our affliction so we may be able to comfort others in affliction with the comfort he has given us. He further said my peace I leave you; not as the world gives, John 14:27. A good shepherd does not sacrifice or deny the peace and comfort of his flock. Jesus therefore said to his disciples whenever you enter a town and they receive you, eat what is set before you; heal the sick in it and say to them, the Kingdom of God has come near to you, John 10:8-9.
He is accessible
The good shepherd is accessible in times of need. Romans 10:13 says for everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved. 2 Timothy 2:22 however says you need a pure heart whilst Romans 10:14 says you need to believe in him if you have to access Jesus.
Avails other support
The good shepherd avails other support to his sheep. He ensures provision for their security when he is not available. Three times Jesus said to Simon Peter, feed my lambs, John 21:15; in verse 16 he said tend my sheep; and in verse 17 he said feed my sheep. This is the good shepherd who has the interest of his sheep at heart.
Prays for his sheep
The good shepherd always prays for his sheep for their strength. Jesus said in Luke 22:32 that but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail; and when you have turned again, strengthen your brethren. Paul speaking by the Holy Spirit said in James 5:16 that pray for one another, that you may be healed.
Guards his own
The good shepherd guards what has been entrusted to him as Paul said in 2 Timothy 1:12 that I am sure that he is able to guard until that Day what he has to me. Paul also says another way by which a shepherd may guard his sheep. He says in 1 Corinthians 7:5 that do not refuse one another except perhaps by agreement for a season, that you may devote yourselves to prayer ; but then come together again, lest Satan tempt you through lack of self-control.
Lays down his life for his sheep
The good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep just as Jesus did. He said I lay down my life for the sheep, John 10:15. Jesus died for us. David also showed bravery against lions and bears when they tried to feed on his sheep at the peril of his life.
Keeps vigil for his sheep
The good shepherd keeps vigil over his sheep and encourages his sheep to do the same. Jesus said, watch and pray that you do not fall into temptation, Matthew 26:41; Mark 14:38; and Luke 21:36. He also admonished his disciples when he said, so you could not watch with me for one hour? Matthew 26:45.
Other duties
Psalms 23 says the good shepherd satisfies all the sheep’s needs. He gives hope or restores their soul. He is righteous and with that identity he leads the sheep towards blamelessness. He gives confidence over fear and death. His staff as a weapon directs the sheep from danger. He is always with his sheep. He restores comfort. He exalts his sheep before the enemy. He oils the sheep against ticks or bodily invasion, disease or infection. He supplies beyond the required needs. He shows goodness and mercy.
Trusting Jesus
Trust Jesus with your security in this life and hereafter. He fully knows your needs, enemies and predators and their antics. He is capable as your shepherd and will not fail you. He is with us always and will be available when you call on his name. Simply believe him and be pure in heart bearing no grudge against anyone. I have tried him and found him as true, faithful and pure.
Prayer
Jesus, as the good shepherd I appreciate you for my life and security. I entrust my all into your care. Prompt me in times and places of danger and let me hear your voice always. Amen!!
