The Good Shepherd

Devotional

Day 1: Jesus is the Good Shepherd who knows and leads His sheep.

Jesus describes Himself as both the gate and the good shepherd, emphasizing that He alone provides true access to abundant life and eternal security for His followers. The sheep know His voice and follow Him, trusting in His care and protection, while strangers and false teachers are ignored because their voices are unfamiliar. This relationship is deeply personal—He calls each sheep by name, leads them to safety, and lays down His life for them. The call is to recognize His voice above all others and to trust Him as the only way to salvation and fulfillment. [05:00]

John 10:1-18 (ESV)
“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber. But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” This figure of speech Jesus used with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them. So Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. 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 ways do you intentionally listen for the voice of Jesus in your daily life, and how can you better distinguish His voice from the many competing voices around you today?

Day 2: The Lord provides, protects, and comforts His sheep.

God, as the Good Shepherd, knows exactly what His sheep need and provides abundantly—leading them to green pastures and still waters, restoring their souls, and guiding them on righteous paths. Even in the darkest valleys, His presence brings comfort and courage, using both the rod and staff to guide, correct, and protect. The journey may include hardship, but the assurance is that the Shepherd never leaves His sheep alone; He is always present, equipping and caring for them through every circumstance. [20:02]

Psalm 23:1-4 (ESV)
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Reflection: Think of a recent “valley” you have walked through—how did you experience God’s provision or comfort, and how might you share that story to encourage someone else today?

Day 3: The Good Shepherd seeks the lost and calls us to join Him.

Jesus’ heart is not only for those already in the sheepfold but also for those who are lost and wandering. He leaves the ninety-nine to seek the one, demonstrating relentless love and pursuit of every person who needs to be brought into the safety of His care. As His followers, we are called to be His voice and hands, reaching out to those outside the fold, sharing the hope and security found in Christ, and participating in His mission to rescue and restore the lost. [28:08]

Matthew 18:12-14 (ESV)
“What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.”

Reflection: Who is one person in your life who may feel lost or far from God, and how can you reach out to them this week with the love and invitation of the Good Shepherd?

Day 4: Jesus commissions us to make disciples as we go.

After modeling the life of the Good Shepherd, Jesus gives His followers a clear command: to make disciples of all nations, baptizing and teaching them to obey all He has commanded. This commission is not reserved for a select few but is the calling of every believer, empowered by the authority of Christ and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Making disciples happens in everyday life—across the street, in our communities, and to the ends of the earth—as we follow Jesus’ example and invite others to do the same. [40:38]

Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV)
And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Reflection: Where is God prompting you to “make disciples” in your current season—at home, work, school, or elsewhere—and what is one step you can take today to obey that call?

Day 5: Knowing the Shepherd’s voice leads to trust and obedience.

The relationship between the sheep and the Shepherd is marked by intimacy and trust; the sheep know the Shepherd’s voice and respond with obedience, even when the path is unclear or the answer is to wait. In a world filled with distractions, opinions, and competing truths, it is vital to cultivate a deep familiarity with Jesus’ voice through Scripture, prayer, and community. As we grow in recognizing His leading, we learn to trust His timing and direction, confident that He sees the bigger picture and always acts for our good. [59:04]

John 10:27-29 (ESV)
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.”

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you sense God asking you to wait or to move, and how can you practice listening and responding to His voice with greater trust this week?

Sermon Summary

Today’s focus is on Jesus as the Good Shepherd, drawing from John 10 and Psalm 23, and connecting this truth to our calling in the Great Commission. Jesus uses the imagery of sheep and shepherd to reveal both our need for guidance and His deep, sacrificial care for us. He is not only the gate—the only way to salvation—but also the shepherd who knows each of us by name, leads us, and lays down His life for us. This relationship is intimate: the sheep know the shepherd’s voice and follow Him, while strangers’ voices are ignored. The challenge is to cultivate such familiarity with Christ that we can discern His voice amid the noise and confusion of our world.

Sheep are not flattered in Scripture; they are dependent, easily misled, and in need of constant care. This is a humbling reminder that, despite our desire for independence, we are created to follow. If we are not following Christ, we will inevitably follow something else—be it culture, trends, or our own desires. The world is full of competing voices, and it is easy to be swept up in arguments and distractions that have little eternal value. Instead, our focus should be on following the Shepherd, who leads us to what we truly need and walks with us even through the darkest valleys.

Psalm 23 beautifully illustrates the Shepherd’s provision and presence. Even in the “valley of the shadow of death,” we are not alone. The Shepherd’s rod and staff comfort and guide us, sometimes correcting us, always protecting us. Jesus’ care extends beyond those already in the sheepfold; He seeks the lost, calling them by name, and invites us to join Him in this mission.

This leads us to the Great Commission in Matthew 28. Jesus, with all authority in heaven and on earth, commands us to make disciples—not just to go, baptize, or teach, but to invest in others as He invested in us. Making disciples is not reserved for the specially gifted; it is the calling of every follower. As we follow the Good Shepherd, we are equipped by His Spirit to lead others to Him, trusting that He is with us always. Our task is to know His voice, follow where He leads, and invite others into the safety and abundance of His fold.

Key Takeaways

1. Knowing the Shepherd’s Voice: True spiritual maturity is marked by an intimate familiarity with Christ’s voice. In a world filled with competing messages and false teachers, it is essential to cultivate a relationship with Jesus so close that His guidance is unmistakable. This requires intentional time in prayer, Scripture, and obedience, so that when He calls, we recognize and respond, rather than being swayed by the noise around us. [08:26]
2. Embracing Dependence: Being called “sheep” is not a compliment to our intelligence or independence, but a reminder of our deep need for guidance. We are designed to follow, and if we do not follow Christ, we will inevitably follow something else—often to our detriment. Embracing our dependence on the Good Shepherd frees us from the illusion of self-sufficiency and opens us to His provision and direction. [10:17]
3. The Shepherd’s Presence in the Valley: Life’s darkest moments—the “valley of the shadow of death”—are not detours but part of the journey. The promise is not that we will avoid hardship, but that the Shepherd will be with us in it, guiding, correcting, and comforting. Our testimony through suffering becomes a source of hope for others, as we share how the Shepherd led us through. [22:25]
4. The Mission Beyond the Fold: Jesus’ heart is not only for those already in the sheepfold but for the lost who have yet to hear His voice. He seeks them out, and He calls us to join Him in this mission. Our role is to be His voice, extending the invitation to safety, belonging, and abundant life, trusting that He is always searching for the one who is lost. [28:51]
5. Making Disciples as Our Primary Calling: The Great Commission is not a call for a select few but for every believer. The command is to “make disciples,” which encompasses going, baptizing, and teaching as natural outflows of following Jesus. We are not required to have all the answers or special qualifications; we are simply called to be faithful, knowing that Christ’s authority and presence empower us for the task. [45:17]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:28] - Introduction and Prayer
[01:23] - Setting the Scene: John 10 and the Good Shepherd
[02:47] - The Parable of the Sheep and the Shepherd
[04:39] - Jesus Explains: “I Am the Gate”
[05:23] - The Good Shepherd Lays Down His Life
[07:16] - Abundant Life Through the Shepherd
[08:26] - Knowing the Shepherd’s Voice
[10:02] - The Nature of Sheep and Our Dependence
[12:09] - Competing Voices in the World
[16:17] - Jesus’ Example: Righteous Anger and Compassion
[19:13] - Psalm 23: The Shepherd’s Provision
[21:09] - The Valley of the Shadow of Death
[24:03] - The Rod and Staff: Comfort and Correction
[27:08] - The Lost Sheep and the Shepherd’s Mission
[30:30] - Jesus’ Sacrifice and Resurrection
[35:03] - The Jews’ Response and Jesus’ Clarity
[39:44] - The Great Commission: Our Calling
[41:53] - Breaking Down “Make Disciples”
[46:22] - The Ripple Effect of Disciple-Making
[49:22] - Connecting the Good Shepherd to the Great Commission
[52:52] - Christ’s Authority and Our Mission
[55:10] - Following the Shepherd’s Example
[57:42] - Being Good Sheep and Reaching Others
[59:21] - Trusting the Shepherd’s Timing
[60:14] - Closing Prayer

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

John 10:1-18 (ESV) — > “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber. But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” This figure of speech Jesus used with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them. So Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. 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.”

Psalm 23 (ESV) — > The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV) — > And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Observation Questions

In John 10, what are the differences between the shepherd, the hired hand, and the thief? What does each one do for the sheep?
According to Psalm 23, what are some specific ways the Shepherd provides for and protects the sheep?
In John 10, how do the sheep respond to the shepherd’s voice compared to the voice of strangers?
In Matthew 28, what is the main command Jesus gives to his followers before he ascends to heaven? ([45:17])

Interpretation Questions

The sermon said that being called “sheep” is not a compliment, but a reminder of our dependence. Why do you think Jesus chose this image for us? How does this challenge our desire for independence? ([10:17])
The sheep know the shepherd’s voice and follow him, but ignore strangers. What does it look like in real life to “know” Jesus’ voice? How can someone tell the difference between God’s voice and all the other voices in the world? ([08:26])
The “valley of the shadow of death” is described as something we all must walk through. What does it mean that the Shepherd is with us in the valley, and how does that change the way we face hard times? ([22:25])
The Great Commission is described as a call for every believer, not just a select few. What does it mean to “make disciples” in everyday life, and why is this more than just going, baptizing, or teaching? ([45:17])

Application Questions

The sermon challenged us to become so familiar with Jesus’ voice that we can recognize it even in a noisy world. What are some specific distractions or “competing voices” in your life right now? What is one step you can take this week to spend more intentional time listening for Jesus’ voice? ([08:26])
The idea of being a sheep means admitting our need for guidance. Is there an area of your life where you have been trying to be independent instead of following Jesus’ lead? What would it look like to trust the Good Shepherd in that area? ([10:17])
Psalm 23 says the Shepherd’s rod and staff “comfort” us, even when they correct us. Can you think of a time when God’s correction or guidance was uncomfortable but ultimately for your good? How did you respond? ([24:03])
The sermon talked about the Shepherd seeking out lost sheep and inviting us to join in that mission. Who is someone in your life who might be “outside the sheepfold” right now? What is one practical way you could reach out to them or share Jesus’ love this week? ([28:51])
Making disciples is described as our primary calling, not just for pastors or missionaries. What is one way you can invest in someone’s spiritual growth this month—whether it’s a friend, family member, or coworker? ([45:17])
The Shepherd sometimes leads us through “valleys” rather than around them. Are you currently in a difficult season? How can you look for God’s presence and comfort in the middle of it, and who could you share your story with to encourage them? ([22:25])
The sermon said we don’t have to have all the answers to make disciples, just a willingness to be used by God. What fears or hesitations do you have about sharing your faith or helping others grow? How can you take a small step of faith this week? ([58:34])

Sermon Clips

We were designed from the beginning to follow something. And if we're not following the good shepherd, we're going to be following something else. What that is, is different for some of you. It's whatever looks the best, whatever the trend is today. Oh, I've got to keep up with the Smiths down the street because they just got a brand new house and they just got a brand new car. Therefore, I've got to have the same thing. It's whatever draws your attention and steers you away. You're going to follow something. [00:11:22] (50 seconds) #FollowTheRightLeader

He also loved the world. He also went to where we wouldn't think we should go. He went and sat with the sinners. He went and sat with the tax collectors and the people that were hated. But they didn't leave the same way of when they were when He showed up. He changed the environment. When He went in and said, you know, to, specifically, Zacchaeus, you know, I'm going to go eat at your house today. When He went to Zacchaeus' house, when He left, Zacchaeus was a changed man. He didn't go back to what He was doing prior to eating with Jesus. Because He had that encounter, He knew exactly what He needed to do to change. And started giving the money back to the people that He had defrauded. [00:17:37] (74 seconds) #TransformativeEncounter

If the Lord is my Shepherd, I have no need of anything. I have no wants. Because He, being the Good Shepherd, already knows what I need. The Good Shepherd knows His sheep, and knows what they need, and therefore, they don't have to want for anything. [00:19:25] (21 seconds) #NoNeedWithTheShepherd

We've got a lost and dying world that needs to hear the voice of the shepherd. How do you think that happens? Do you think maybe, just maybe, God can use us to be his voice? To be the one that goes out and starts speaking the truth? Speaking the same words as our good shepherd so that those who are outside the sheep pen can understand where the safety and security is. How good it would be to have a shepherd that cares for them, cares for their needs, to where they no longer have to want and wander aimlessly through this life. [00:28:59] (64 seconds) #BeTheShepherdsVoice

He's explaining to them exactly how I can give you the best. He's explaining to them how in verse 10 I have come so that you can have life and have it in abundance. He's trying to explain to them how I can provide that to you. I can't provide that to you until I complete my mission. Once I die and I'm raised, I will then have conquered sin and death to be able to provide you a free gift into eternity. So that you no longer have to worry about death. Yes, your physical body will die, but the last minute that you take a breath here you'll take your first one with Christ. [00:31:10] (49 seconds) #LifeInAbundancePromise

``He didn't want to have to go through the whipping and the beating, the humiliation of carrying the cross through the street, hanging on the cross, wearing the crown of thorns. He knew exactly what awaited him and he said if there is any other way, please. But then he says the most important words. not my will, but your will be done. And he understood in that moment, I no longer care about my wants. I am here to fulfill my Father's plan. And he willingly laid down his life on the cross for you. To save you and to provide a way for you to have life and have it in abundance. [00:32:57] (60 seconds) #NotMyWillButYours

He gave us one job. And that is to make disciples. Out of all of that, he didn't ask us specifically to go. He didn't ask us specifically to baptize. He didn't ask us specifically to teach. But he's asking us to make disciples and as we make disciples, we're going to be going, we're going to be baptizing, and we will be teaching. Because those are aspects of making a disciple. [00:45:39] (32 seconds) #MakeDisciplesFirst

Because he was the Good Shepherd he led the way. He showed them during those three years what it actually meant to go and see that which was lost. And they got to see what it was that he was asking them to do to where now that he's leaving and asking them to then go asking them to make disciples they have what they need to be able to do that. They have everything that they need because the Good Shepherd has provided it to them by teaching them what they needed to know for when he left. [00:50:07] (43 seconds) #EmpoweredByTheSpirit

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