Greetings Flag Branch members and friends and thanks for taking the time to join me for some Fine Points from yesterday’s service and message “The Good Shepherd”.
There are two groups of people in the world. Some are believers and most are unbelievers. Some are saved, but most are lost. God made this world knowing that the vast majority of people would be unbelievers and lost.
To save His children from that fate, like a shepherd seeking his sheep, Jesus came to seek and save God’s children. The imagery of the shepherd and sheep is used in several places in the bible. Sheep need and rely on a shepherd to meet their needs, provide protection and guidance.
When the Jews asked Jesus for a definitive answer to whether He is the Christ, He told them He had already answered that question and they didn’t believe Him because they are not His sheep or people. Jesus declares that His people or sheep believe Him, follow Him and recognize His voice. Those who don’t believe Him are not those God created the world for. They are not those Jesus came seeking for and died for.
The Good Shepherd laid down His own life for the life of the sheep. By doing this, He gives them eternal life and secures their salvation. The imagery is used again when Jesus describes the judgement. He said He shall come and sit upon the throne of His glory and gather all nations before Him. He shall separate them like a shepherd divides or separates His sheep from His goats. The righteous or believer He describes as sheep and everyone else as goats.
One other example of the “Good Shepherd” appears in what is probably one of the most quoted or know scripture text. The 23rd Psalm begins with the words “The Lord is my Shepherd”. There is a relationship of trust, dependence and devotion that exist between the shepherd and the sheep.
As Christians, we trust God, believe God, depend on God and love God. God truly is the Good Shepherd who came and found us. We are in His hands. We can rest assured that He has our best interest at heart and will work all things out for our good.
Remember to visit our website to see our latest news, announcements and worship activities and opportunities. Be sure to download our mobile app on your phones and mobile devices. Don’t forget to read and listen to my Sunday School preview that comes out on Thursday. Get a jump on Sunday School by reading the SS Daily Bible Readings at our website or by clicking the link. As always, remember to fear God and keep His commandments
Pastor Jordan
