The Good Shepherd: Leadership, Inclusivity, and Sacrifice

 

Summary

In the discussion led by Jessica and Tim Bond, the focus is on the continuation of a parable that Jesus told to a group of Pharisees, particularly concerning the metaphor of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. This parable comes after Jesus healed a blind man on the Sabbath, an act that caused controversy among the Pharisees. The narrative uses the imagery of sheep, shepherds, and flocks to convey deeper spiritual truths.

The parable contrasts the Good Shepherd with the hired hand. While the hired hand abandons the sheep at the sight of danger, the Good Shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. This self-sacrificial love is at the heart of the message, illustrating the depth of care and commitment the Good Shepherd (Jesus) has for his flock. The sheep know the shepherd, and the shepherd knows them, which is reflective of the intimate relationship between Jesus and his followers.

Furthermore, the narrative expands the scope of the flock to include other sheep that are not currently part of the fold, indicating an inclusive vision where all who listen to the shepherd's voice are welcomed. This is a direct challenge to any exclusive or elitist views, emphasizing that the true flock is defined by those who follow the voice of the one shepherd, Jesus.

The discussion also delves into the concept of leadership and following. It is suggested that before one can lead, one must learn to follow, and in the Christian context, this means following Jesus, the Good Shepherd. This principle is foundational to Christian discipleship and is a source of peace and direction.

The narrative ties Jesus into the entire biblical story, showing that the themes of shepherding and leadership are consistent throughout scripture. The prophecy from Ezekiel, given 570 years before Jesus' birth, is highlighted to show the continuity of God's plan. Ezekiel speaks against the poor leadership of Israel's shepherds (leaders) and proclaims that God himself will shepherd his people, providing care and justice. This prophecy is seen as being fulfilled in Jesus, who is the Good Shepherd and the eternal solution to the problem of failed human leadership.

The discussion concludes with a reflection on the role of individuals as shepherds in their own right. While Jesus is the Good Shepherd, each person has a responsibility to lead in some capacity, whether they recognize it or not. The imagery of sheep leading sheep is introduced, with the term "bellwether" used to describe a lead sheep. This metaphor extends to the idea that all Christians are to some extent shepherds, influencing others by their actions and words.

The session ends with a reading of Psalm 23, a powerful affirmation of the shepherd's care, and a call to follow Jesus, who leads to life in abundance. The message is one of gratitude for Jesus' guidance, protection, and the ultimate sacrifice of laying down his life for the flock.

Key Takeaways:

- The Good Shepherd is characterized by self-sacrificial love, willing to lay down his life for the sheep. This imagery is not just a metaphor but a profound truth about the nature of Jesus' leadership and the extent of his commitment to those he calls his own. The Good Shepherd's actions contrast sharply with those of the hired hand, who lacks genuine care for the sheep. [59:52]

- The inclusivity of the Good Shepherd's flock is a central theme, emphasizing that all who hear and follow Jesus' voice are part of one flock under one shepherd. This challenges any notions of exclusivity within the faith community and invites a broader understanding of who is welcomed into the fold. [01:19:21]

- The concept of following before leading is a foundational Christian principle. It is through following Jesus, the ultimate example of leadership and service, that individuals learn the qualities necessary to guide others. This principle is essential for personal spiritual growth and for exercising influence within the community. [01:21:32]

- The biblical narrative of shepherding, from the Old Testament to the New Testament, consistently points to God's desire to lead and care for his people. The fulfillment of this in Jesus as the Good Shepherd confirms the continuity of God's plan and his intimate involvement in the lives of his followers. [01:15:15]

- Each believer carries a measure of shepherding responsibility, whether they are aware of it or not. The way Christians live their lives can lead others, much like a bellwether leads a flock. This underscores the importance of living in a way that reflects the character and teachings of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. [01:23:58]

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. 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."

2. Ezekiel 34:11-16 (NIV)
> "‘For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. I will bring them out from the nations and gather them from the countries, and I will bring them into their own land. I will pasture them on the mountains of Israel, in the ravines and in all the settlements in the land. I will tend them in a good pasture, and the mountain heights of Israel will be their grazing land. There they will lie down in good grazing land, and there they will feed in a rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. I myself will tend my sheep and have them lie down, declares the Sovereign Lord. I will search for the lost and bring back the strays. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak, but the sleek and the strong I will destroy. I will shepherd the flock with justice.’"

3. Psalm 23 (NIV)
> "The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, 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 your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

#### Observation Questions
1. What are the key differences between the Good Shepherd and the hired hand as described in John 10:11-13?
2. How does Jesus describe his relationship with his sheep in John 10:14-15?
3. According to Ezekiel 34:11-16, what actions does God promise to take as the shepherd of his people?
4. In Psalm 23, what are the various ways the Lord, as a shepherd, provides for and protects his sheep?

#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does Jesus' willingness to lay down his life for the sheep reveal about his character and mission? [59:52]
2. How does the inclusion of "other sheep" in John 10:16 challenge exclusive or elitist views within the faith community? [01:00:38]
3. In what ways does the prophecy in Ezekiel 34:11-16 find its fulfillment in Jesus' declaration in John 10?
4. How does the imagery of shepherding in Psalm 23 enhance our understanding of Jesus as the Good Shepherd?

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt abandoned or unsupported. How does knowing Jesus as the Good Shepherd who never abandons his sheep bring you comfort? [59:52]
2. Jesus speaks of having "other sheep" that he must bring into the fold. How can you personally contribute to creating an inclusive and welcoming faith community? [01:00:38]
3. Before one can lead, one must learn to follow. In what areas of your life do you need to better follow Jesus' example of self-sacrificial love? [01:21:32]
4. The prophecy in Ezekiel 34 speaks against poor leadership. How can you ensure that your leadership, whether in your family, workplace, or church, reflects the care and justice of the Good Shepherd? [01:10:52]
5. Psalm 23 speaks of the Lord guiding us along the right paths. What specific steps can you take this week to seek and follow God's guidance in your daily decisions? [01:28:38]
6. The sermon mentioned that each believer has a measure of shepherding responsibility. Identify one person in your life whom you can shepherd or mentor. What practical steps will you take to support and guide them? [01:23:58]
7. Reflect on the concept of "sheep leading sheep." How can you be a positive influence and example to those around you, even if you don't see yourself as a leader? [01:23:58]

Devotional

Day 1: Embracing Sacrificial Love
The Good Shepherd epitomizes the pinnacle of sacrificial love, setting a profound example for all to follow. This love is not merely an abstract concept but a tangible action, as demonstrated by the willingness to lay down one's life for others. This level of commitment is a stark contrast to the hired hand's fleeting loyalty, which dissipates at the first sign of trouble. The Good Shepherd's dedication to the sheep is a reflection of Jesus' dedication to humanity, a love so deep that it encompasses the ultimate sacrifice. This selfless love calls for reflection on the nature of personal sacrifice and the ways in which one embodies this love in relationships with others. [59:52]

John 10:11-13 - "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."

Reflection: How can you demonstrate sacrificial love in your own life, and in what ways might you be called to lay down your own desires for the sake of others?

Day 2: Inclusivity in the Flock
The flock of the Good Shepherd is not defined by boundaries or exclusions but by the unifying voice of Jesus, which calls out to all. This inclusivity is a direct challenge to any form of elitism within the faith community, inviting a broader and more diverse group of followers into the fold. The message is clear: all who hear and respond to the shepherd's call are welcomed, regardless of their past or present circumstances. This vision of inclusivity extends beyond mere acceptance, promoting a deep sense of belonging and unity under the care of one shepherd. It is a call to recognize and embrace the diversity of the flock, understanding that each member has a unique role to play in the greater narrative of faith. [01:19:21]

Ephesians 2:19-20 - "Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone."

Reflection: In what ways can you contribute to creating a more inclusive community that reflects the open invitation of the Good Shepherd?

Day 3: The Journey of Following
Before one can lead, one must first learn to follow, and in the context of faith, this means following the ultimate example set by Jesus. This principle is not only foundational for Christian discipleship but also for personal growth and community influence. Following Jesus involves embracing his teachings, understanding his character, and walking in his footsteps. It is a journey that shapes the qualities necessary for leadership, such as humility, service, and compassion. As followers of the Good Shepherd, individuals find peace and direction, which in turn equips them to guide others along the path of righteousness. [01:21:32]

1 Peter 2:21-23 - "To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. 'He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.' When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly."

Reflection: What is one specific way you can follow Jesus more closely today, and how might this act of following enhance your ability to lead others?

Day 4: Continuity of God's Shepherding
The biblical narrative of shepherding, from the Old Testament prophets to the life of Jesus, reveals a consistent theme of God's desire to lead and care for His people. The fulfillment of this role in Jesus as the Good Shepherd confirms the continuity of God's plan and His intimate involvement in the lives of His followers. This theme is not just a historical account but a present reality, as the shepherd's care is experienced daily by those who trust in Him. The prophecy from Ezekiel, which speaks of God's promise to shepherd His people, is seen as being fulfilled in Jesus, who provides both care and justice, guiding His flock to green pastures. [01:15:15]

Ezekiel 34:15-16 - "I myself will tend my sheep and have them lie down, declares the Sovereign Lord. I will search for the lost and bring back the strays. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak, but the sleek and the strong I will destroy. I will shepherd the flock with justice."

Reflection: How do you see God's shepherding presence in your life, and in what ways can you trust Him more fully as your shepherd?

Day 5: Living as Shepherds Among Sheep
While Jesus is the ultimate Good Shepherd, each believer is called to a measure of shepherding responsibility. The way Christians live their lives serves as a beacon to others, much like a bellwether leads a flock. This metaphor extends to the idea that all believers are, to some extent, shepherds, influencing others through their actions and words. It is a call to live in a manner that reflects the character and teachings of Jesus, guiding others not by force but by example. This responsibility underscores the importance of personal integrity and the impact one's life can have on the community and the world at large. [01:23:58]

1 Thessalonians 1:6-7 - "You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia."

Reflection: What is one way you can be a bellwether in your community, leading by example and reflecting the character of the Good Shepherd?

Quotes

1) "Jesus was speaking in love to the Pharisees and to the broken; his heart was a heart of restoration and shepherding for the religious and for those who realized they were blind." [01:06:31] (Download)

2) "We are first each of us sheep who follow the one Shepherd... that is something that gives such peace to me in my Brokenness." [01:20:49] (Download)

3) "The word kenosis, the emptying of himself, the choice of our God to be born in obscurity and lay down his life for us is what we can follow." [01:27:50] (Download)

4) "The criteria for in or out in the flock of Jesus is that they are part of the one flock and they are following one Shepherd, and that is Jesus." [01:19:21] (Download)

5) "How Jesus leads us is to lay down his life and give his all for us... imitation is how we're to follow him." [01:27:01] (Download)

6) "Regardless if you think you're leading or not, there are people looking and following always." [01:23:23] (Download)

7) "Jesus is the Good Shepherd who will lead the people forever... in the heart of God for all of time was to lead us, was to restore us, was to give us hope and future." [01:17:26] (Download)

8) "The big questions in my head... who's in and who's out... the criteria for in or out in the flock of Jesus is that they are part of the one flock and they are following one Shepherd." [01:18:41] (Download)

9) "It is possible for sheep to lead sheep... the lead Sheep In A Flock is called a bellwether... we are definitely all also to some extent Shepherds and bellwethers." [01:23:58] (Download)

10) "Jesus proclaims himself as the Good Shepherd... the ultimate and eternal solution to the problem of bad Shepherds." [01:16:38] (Download)

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Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?