Embodying the Sacrificial Love of the Good Shepherd
Summary
Today, we gathered to reflect on the deep, sacrificial love of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, and what it means to truly know and follow Him. We began by honoring all those who have acted as mothers—biological, adoptive, or spiritual—recognizing the profound impact of nurturing and guiding others in faith and life. This spirit of care and community is at the heart of what it means to be the church: a people who love, support, and walk alongside one another.
We explored the human tendency to see what we want to see, whether it’s faces in pizza or meaning in the clouds. This inclination can lead us astray, especially when it comes to spiritual matters. Throughout history, many have claimed to be the Messiah, and it’s easy to judge those who followed them or those, like the Pharisees, who responded with skepticism or even hostility. Yet, if we’re honest, we might find ourselves reacting similarly when confronted with something that challenges our understanding or comfort.
Turning to John 10, we listened to Jesus’ words: “I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” This is not just a gentle, comforting image—it’s a radical declaration. Jesus distinguishes Himself from hired hands who abandon the sheep at the first sign of danger. Instead, He willingly puts Himself in harm’s way for those He loves. This is the kind of love that is not passive or sentimental, but active, costly, and deeply personal.
To know Jesus as the Good Shepherd is more than just hearing about Him or acknowledging His existence. In the biblical sense, to “know” and “hear” God means to obey, to follow, to trust. It’s a relationship that goes both ways: Jesus knows us intimately, and we respond by following His voice, living out His teachings, and loving others as He has loved us. This is not always easy, and it can be unsettling—especially when it means letting go of our skepticism or our need for control.
As we come to the table, we remember the ultimate act of love: Jesus laying down His life for us. We are invited not only to receive this love but to embody it, showing grace and care to those who are still searching, doubting, or feeling lost. Whether we are seasoned in faith or just beginning the journey, we are called to be living witnesses of the Good Shepherd’s love, extending it to the world around us.
Key Takeaways
- The Power and Cost of True Shepherding
Jesus’ declaration as the Good Shepherd is not a sentimental metaphor but a radical commitment to sacrificial love. Unlike hired hands who flee at danger, Jesus stands between us and harm, laying down His life for our sake. This challenges us to consider what it means to truly care for others—not just in word, but in costly, self-giving action. [35:28]
- Seeing What We Want vs. Seeing What Is True
Our minds are wired to find patterns and meaning, sometimes leading us to see what we expect rather than what is real. This can be harmless, like seeing faces in clouds, but spiritually, it can make us susceptible to false claims or blind to God’s true work. Discerning Jesus’ voice requires humility, openness, and a willingness to look beyond our assumptions. [29:28]
- Obedience as the Heart of Knowing God
In both the Old and New Testaments, to “know” God is not merely intellectual or emotional—it is expressed in obedience. Hearing Jesus’ voice means following His teachings, trusting His guidance, and aligning our lives with His will. This relational obedience is the foundation of genuine faith and spiritual maturity. [40:56]
- The Temptation to Judge and the Call to Compassion
It’s easy to look down on the Pharisees or those who are skeptical, but we often share their fears and resistance to change. Jesus invites us to move beyond judgment, recognizing our own doubts and extending compassion to others who struggle to believe. Our role is not to throw stones, but to embody the patient, welcoming love of the Good Shepherd. [43:43]
- Love as the Defining Mark of Christ’s Followers
Jesus’ command is clear: “Love one another.” This love is not conditional or abstract, but practical and transformative. As we receive the Good Shepherd’s love, we are called to share it—mentoring, supporting, and caring for those who are searching or struggling, so that the world might see Christ through us. [48:18]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[03:31] - Opening Prayer and Honoring Mothers
[25:51] - Seeing Jesus in Unlikely Places
[27:54] - The Cheese Sandwich and Human Perception
[29:28] - Why We See What We Want to See
[30:46] - False Messiahs and Spiritual Discernment
[34:14] - Setting the Scene: John 10
[35:28] - The Good Shepherd Lays Down His Life
[36:19] - The Difference Between Shepherd and Hired Hand
[38:35] - Jesus’ Authority and Mission
[39:32] - Knowing God Means Obeying God
[41:59] - The Pharisees’ Response: Picking Up Stones
[43:43] - The Danger of Misjudging God’s Work
[47:00] - Friendship with Jesus and Obedience
[48:18] - Love One Another: The Core Command
[50:04] - Wrestling with Doubt and Faith
[51:19] - Becoming Mentors and Living Witnesses
[52:17] - Communion Invitation
[53:26] - Remembering the Good Shepherd at the Table
[01:07:08] - Benediction and Sending Forth
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: The Good Shepherd’s Love
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### Bible Reading
John 10:11-18 (NIV)
> “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.
> “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.
> The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.”
John 15:12-14 (NIV)
> “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.”
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### Observation Questions
1. In John 10, what is the main difference between the good shepherd and the hired hand? ([35:28])
2. According to Jesus, what does it mean for the sheep to “know” the shepherd? ([39:32])
3. What reaction did the Pharisees have when Jesus called himself the Good Shepherd? ([41:59])
4. In John 15, what does Jesus say is the greatest kind of love? ([47:00])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus chose the image of a shepherd to describe his relationship with us, instead of another role or title? ([35:28])
2. The sermon mentioned that to “know” Jesus is more than just hearing about him. What does it look like in real life to “know” and “hear” Jesus’ voice? ([39:32])
3. The Pharisees were skeptical and even hostile toward Jesus’ claims. In what ways might people today react similarly when confronted with something that challenges their beliefs or comfort? ([43:43])
4. Jesus says, “You are my friends if you do what I command.” How does this shape our understanding of friendship with Jesus? Is it conditional, or is there more to it? ([47:00])
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon talked about the cost of true shepherding—sacrificial love that puts others first. Can you think of a time when you had to put yourself “in harm’s way” (emotionally, physically, or otherwise) for someone else? What did that cost you, and what did you learn from it? ([35:28])
2. We’re wired to see what we want to see, sometimes missing what God is really doing. Are there areas in your life where you might be seeing what you expect, instead of what is true? How can you practice humility and openness to God’s voice this week? ([29:28])
3. The sermon said that to “know” Jesus means to obey him. Is there a specific teaching of Jesus that you find hard to follow right now? What would it look like to take a step of obedience in that area? ([40:56])
4. It’s easy to judge others who doubt or struggle with faith, like the Pharisees did. Is there someone in your life who is skeptical or questioning? How can you show them compassion and patience instead of judgment? ([43:43])
5. Jesus’ command is to “love one another.” What is one practical way you can show this kind of love to someone in your church, family, or neighborhood this week? ([48:18])
6. The sermon honored mothers and those who nurture others in faith. Who has been a “spiritual parent” or mentor to you? How can you thank or encourage them this week? ([03:31])
7. If you feel like you’re still searching or doubting, what would help you take a next step toward trusting Jesus as your Good Shepherd? If you’ve been following Jesus for a while, how can you help someone else who is still on the journey? ([51:19])
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Thank God for being the Good Shepherd who knows us, loves us, and laid down his life for us. Ask for help to hear his voice, follow his lead, and show his love to others this week.
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus is the Good Shepherd Who Lays Down His Life
Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd, distinguishing Himself from hired hands by His willingness to lay down His life for the sheep. Unlike those who abandon the flock in times of danger, Jesus stands between His people and harm, motivated by deep love and commitment. This sacrificial love is not just a comforting image but a reality that was fulfilled in His death and resurrection, showing that He truly cares for each of us and is willing to go to any length for our sake. [35:28]
John 10:11-18 (ESV)
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd. For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father.”
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to trust Jesus as your Good Shepherd, believing that He truly cares for you and will stand between you and harm?
Day 2: Knowing Jesus Means Following and Obeying Him
To truly know Jesus is not just to hear about Him or acknowledge His existence, but to listen to His voice and follow His teachings. Just as sheep recognize and respond to their shepherd, we are called to respond to Jesus by obeying His commands and being faithful to His leading. This relationship is not one-sided; it is built on trust, obedience, and love, reflecting a deep connection that goes beyond mere knowledge or religious activity. [40:56]
John 10:27 (ESV)
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”
Reflection: What is one specific way you can respond to Jesus’ voice today by obeying something He has taught you?
Day 3: Jesus Calls Us to Love One Another
Jesus makes it clear that the greatest commandment He gives is to love one another, and that this love is the defining mark of His followers. This love is not just a feeling but an action—laying down our lives, serving others, and extending grace even when it is difficult. When we love as Jesus loves, it not only transforms our relationships but also becomes a powerful witness to the world of who God is and what He desires for humanity. [48:18]
John 15:12-13 (ESV)
“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”
Reflection: Who is one person you can intentionally show Christ-like love to today, even if it requires sacrifice or stepping out of your comfort zone?
Day 4: Faith is a Journey—From Skepticism to Trust
Many of us may find ourselves skeptical or unsure about Jesus, much like the Pharisees who struggled to accept Him as the Messiah. Faith is not always immediate; it is a journey that involves questions, doubts, and gradual understanding. Jesus invites us to keep seeking, to be open to seeing Him for who He truly is, and to allow our hearts to be transformed as we move from skepticism to trust. [51:19]
Mark 9:24 (ESV)
Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!”
Reflection: What is one doubt or question you have about Jesus right now, and how can you bring it honestly to Him in prayer today?
Day 5: We Are Called to Show Jesus’ Love to Others
Those who have come to know Jesus are now called to be His representatives, showing His love to those who are still searching or unsure. God uses us to mentor, encourage, and care for others—not in an overbearing way, but by living out the love and grace we have received. Our actions and words can help others see Jesus more clearly, and our willingness to love can make a lasting impact far beyond ourselves. [52:17]
Matthew 5:16 (ESV)
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
Reflection: Who in your life might need encouragement or a tangible expression of God’s love from you this week, and how can you reach out to them?
Quotes
And so when we come together as a church, we remember that we're all one here, and we all care for one another here. [00:25:25]
Scientists have done studies recently. They found, they've done studies on the brain, and they found that our brains are wired to pay attention to things that we know. This is why inkblot tests work. When you go to a place, and they smash two pieces of paper together with ink in them, and then they pull them apart, and they say, what do you see? [00:29:14]
We're wired to see things. It's one of those once you see it, you can't unsee it things. If I point at a cloud and I say, that looks like the Taj Mahal, if you see it, the cloud is going to look like the Taj Mahal until it disappears. [00:30:32]
When we think about the Pharisees in the Bible, we give them a lot of sass, right? We say a lot of bad about them, and in a lot of cases, rightly so. I want us to keep an open mind that we may not be very different than them. [00:33:56]
I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. [00:35:29]
The shepherd who's been caring for his sheep sees a wolf coming, throws himself in front of the wolf because he cares for the sheep that he's been caring for for so long. [00:36:51]
Jesus says, I'm the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. And looking back now, the people remembering this story would get that, right? Because he did. He did lay himself down for the sheep. [00:37:51]
I'm the good shepherd. I know my sheep and my sheep know me. Just as the Father knows me and I know the Father and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of the sheep pen. I must bring them also. [00:38:11]
No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and the authority to take it up again. Again, this command I've received from my Father. [00:38:48]
In the Old Testament, hear God's voice or know God didn't just mean to hear audibly God's voice. And it wasn't just to know of God. In this case, it wasn't just to hear Jesus speak. And it wasn't just to know of Jesus' existence. [00:39:10]
When they follow the law and the prophets, they know him. The sheep obey the shepherd, right? One can, far away in the sheep pen, can hear the shepherd. But if he doesn't follow the shepherd, he doesn't really know the shepherd, right? [00:40:00]
When people know God, when people hear God's voice, they are obeying him. They're obeying his commands. They're following him. So Jesus is saying, my sheep know me. My sheep hear my voice. My sheep are following me, obeying my teachings, being faithful to my leading. [00:40:43]
It's one of the most fundamental things that Jesus said. It's so kind. It's so gentle. And it's so powerful. And if you keep reading, the Pharisees, they pick up rocks. And they go to stone Jesus. I'm the good shepherd. That thing that's on Bible covers now. That's a sweet thing. They pick up stones. Keep reading. [00:41:45]
But Jesus, who we know now to be the Messiah, the one who was to come, the one who was God incarnate, flesh and blood on this earth. He says, I'm the good shepherd. He's not this towering, I'm going to take everyone down kind of leader. He's saying, I love the people that follow me. They obey me. And I'm good because I love them. [00:46:26]
He has the greatest kind of love. He lays down his life for his friends. And then it goes on, and this is where it troubles me. You are my friends if you do what I command you. And it always, it always troubled me, right? Like, I love the people that follow me if, you know, provided they obey my commands. [00:47:32]
When we follow God, we follow God. He leads us because he has what's best for us in mind. We're not the sheep who are on the far side of the pen who hear him talking but just don't care. We're cared for by him because he loves us, and he has what's best for us. [00:48:18]
And his command at the end of John 15 is to love one another because he knows that that's what we need to be doing because that's the best thing to be doing. Not only for us, not only for them, but for the whole world. If we're showing people that loving one another is the best way, it speaks to the world. [00:48:44]
So we know God, we hear God when we obey his commands. And as John chapter 15 said, my command is this, love one another. [00:49:46]
You might be skeptical of that, God. You might be like the Pharisees who were like, I don't know about this. Faith is his journey. I hope and pray that you'll learn to see Jesus. You might not be there yet. Or you might have been following Jesus for a very long time. [00:51:05]
And I would say to those of you who have been, you now are the ones who get to show love to the people who aren't quite there yet. God speaks through us. God uses us. I'm going to use the word mentor, and I don't mean it in a really, like, overbearing, overwhelming way. But you're the ones who are showing Jesus to the people who are feeling more like the Pharisees, who are unsure of this Jesus. [00:51:35]
And I hope and pray that if you know him as the sheep know the good shepherd, that you'll show that love and you'll speak that love to the people who don't know him and to the rest of the world. Because God's command is this, love one another. [00:52:21]
As we come to the table, we remember that Jesus, who is the good shepherd and who taught us through his death, through his laying down his life, that he genuinely knows us, cares for us, loves us, even to the point of death. [00:52:44]
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