Jesus’ I AM sayings in John Springwood Baptist Church
I AM The Good Shepherd
Welcome to week 4 of our series through the ‘I Am’ sayings of Jesus in the Gospel of John. This week we learn from the familiar words of Jesus: ‘I am the good shepherd’. Throughout the Scriptures we read of God being our personal shepherd (eg: Psalm 23) as well as the shepherd of Israel (eg: Psalm 80). It is an image that emphasizes the uniqueness of the relationship between God and his people, as well describing the way that God relates to his people. In John 10:11 it is a beautiful image that captures the strength, care, protection, leadership and self-giving of Jesus as the good shepherd over the flock belonging to God.
As we begin, how did you feel God speak to you through the message on Sunday?
Share with the group: what is it about this self-description of Jesus impacts you the most?
The ‘good’ shepherd
Read together John 10:11-18
Here Jesus uses both an image and an adjective to describe himself – he is not only shepherd-like, but a ‘good’ shepherd.
Brainstorm a list of things that good shepherds do & a list of characteristics that good shepherds demonstrate in the shepherding of their sheep (as a whole group or break off into smaller groups).
In what ways can you see these characteristics and actions in the person and work of Jesus? Are there any in your list that you feel go beyond the scope of the parallel Jesus is making by calling himself the good shepherd (and why)?
As you think about the ways that Christ has guided, protected & provided for you in your daily walk with him, what personal testimonies do you have that he is your good shepherd?
Jesus links his ‘goodness’ as a shepherd to one particular outworking or proof in verse 11 & 15. What is it? And how has this act protected and provided for the needs the sheep?
A shepherd in contrast to some
Clearly not all shepherds are prepared to love their flock to the point of laying down their life. Who is/are the hired hand/s that Jesus is contrasting himself to? Who is the wolf? What point is Jesus making here about himself? About others?
Throughout the Old Testament, people who God had appointed as leaders over the nation of Israel were often referred to as shepherds (eg: king David). At times these individuals led well, yet often they abused their position and God had very strong things to say about such behaviour.
Read Ezekiel 34.
- Write a list of the attitudes & actions (or inactions) of the shepherds of Israel that God denounces (vv1-10).
- Then write a list of the attitudes & actions of God as shepherd (vv11-16).
- How does this help us to understand the ministry of Jesus?
A shepherd that unites (and divides)
Who are the other sheep that Jesus refers to in v16? Why ‘must’ he bring them also? How should our attitude towards those who are currently ‘outsiders’ reflect Jesus’ attitude here?
How does 1 Corinthians 12:12-14, Ephesians 2:11-22, Galatians 3:26-28 speak of the work of Jesus in bringing together ‘one flock’?
What are some of the practical ways that this oneness/unity should be expressed in the church & in the way we relate to other believers?
Read the reaction to Jesus’ words in v19-21. Why do you think that some of his listeners responded so strongly in the negative?
On what basis does Jesus still divide people today? Compare with v25-28 & Matt 25:31-33.
Our shepherd
What assurance does it give you to know that Jesus as the good shepherd promises to lead his sheep? At times of decision, how can you practise trusting his guidance?
At times we can be pretty good at putting our trust and lives in the hands of everyone but God (whether that be ‘hired hands’ or listening to culture, or elevating our relationships, finances, human strengths and wisdom over God). How does knowing Jesus as the good shepherd who lays down his life, give you the faith and confidence to submit and trust him in all areas of your life?
Is there anything from this study that you particularly would like prayer for as you seek to apply it to your life this coming week?