Session Four: I Am the Good Shepherd
In this session, we’ll explore:
Why the Good Shepherd is an image of Jesus
How the Good Shepherd cares for us
‘It takes some of us a lifetime to learn that Christ, our Good Shepherd, knows exactly what He is doing with us. He understands us perfectly.’
W. Phillip Keller
1. Reflect
Read Psalm 23.
Everyone once memorised this psalm, and it is still loved by an older generation, but what does this psalm tell us about God as the shepherd of our lives?
2. Read
Read John 10:1–21.
Look at verses 1-6. What is it that Jesus is trying to teach the people that they find so hard to grasp? What is Jesus saying about the relationship that he has with his people?
In verses 7-10, who are the robbers about whom he speaks? What is their motive?
What does the image of the gate tell us?
What is Jesus promising us in these verses?
In verses 11-21, what are the characteristics of the Good Shepherd?
Who do you think Jesus is referring to when he speaks about other sheep?
How does the picture that Jesus paints in John 10 compare to the picture of the Lord in Psalm 23?
Need help? Here are some hints…
1. Jesus’ opinion of the Pharisees is that they offer no help to the people that want to grow closer to God, only rules that had to be obeyed. Keeping a set of rules is not how relationships grow, that requires time in someone’s presence and a belief that they actually care about you.
2. The shepherd has the authority to enter the sheepfold and they know him by being with him all the time.
3. The gate means there is a fixed entry point to the sheepfold. Think about what that means if Jesus is the gate.
4. Think about how going in and out and finding pasture is an image that speaks into your life. The shepherd also gives boundaries to the sheep, safe places where they may graze. What do you think life in all its fullness might mean?
6. You and me maybe?
3. Act
Think about how people’s image of Jesus matches Jesus’ words in verse 10. How would you explain the difference to a non-Christian friend?
What can you do to get to know the Good Shepherd better?
4. Pray
For anyone on your heart that does not yet know the Good Shepherd
For guidance that you, or someone that you know, may need for their future
