The True Shepherd

Jeremiah 23:1-4, Ephesians 2:11-22 

Mark 6:30-34

The word shepherd is an amalgam of two words: sheep herder. A shepherd therefore herds or takes care of sheep. The relationship between the  believer and the Lord is depicted as that of a Shepherd and sheep: "we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture."(Ps 100:2c). Psalms 23 probably is one of the most common imagery of the sheep-shepherd relationship we have with the Lord. The Psalms opens with the words "The Lord is my shepherd...."

Now, with the role of a Shepherd in mind (cf Psalms 23, Jer 23:3-4), let's attend to the theme "The True Shepherd".

Here we can say that, if there is The True shepherd, it gives us an indication there is the false shepherd. While the True Shepherd tenders and takes care of the sheep, the false shepherd ignores the sheep and scatters them. “Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!”declares the LORD...“You have scattered my flock and have driven them away, and you have not attended to them."(Jer 23:1-2).

There are indeed many false shepherds(false teachers/prophets) who take advantage of God's flock and scatters them. They are representatives of Satan. They deceive. They lead astray and put God's people in jeopardy: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy". (John 10:10a).

But we have The True shepherd in our Lord Jesus Christ . He laid down His life for His Sheep. He cares for us. He gives us eternal life. "...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"(John 10:10b-11).

Are you weary and burdened? Do you feel like a sheep in need of a Shepherd? Turn to The True Shepherd; Christ the Son of the Living God who died to reconcile us to The Father.

In conclusion, I want to leave you with the words of PH278

Christ Good Shepherd of the sheep, Shepherd Good that feeds His people. When the hour has come for Him, All the earth shall come, rejoicing. Rise up now and shine Your Light, Word of Jesus is fulfilled.