The Good Shepherd

What does good leadership look like?

This a question I ask myself often. I look to those who I would describe as this way. I also notice how much I don’t measure up.

Israel had a history of mixed results with leaders.

Maybe this should be encouraging because the same is true today.

Israel was longing for a “new” shepherd—the Messiah.

Ezekiel 34 indicats that one day God himself would be their shepherd. It also says that the Messiah would be the person. In jesus both come together as one.

True Christian leaders make Jesus the most important value.

It is never about us. Some of us realize this because we know we don’t provide value and worth because of who we are, just hte opposite. However, I see many who are promoting themselves in our Christian leaders and influencer space.

Jesus provides a higher and harder way.

Notice the ways this is true in our text as I try to highlight a few very quickly. I know you have other items on your calendar today. Good things.

Jesus is our example.

I know this seems obvious but I wonder how many times I fail to actually portray this.

Jesus knows us and guides us.

Jesus knows those who are his by name and goes before them. They are lead into safety and he protects them but they don’t get to stay comfortable for every.

Jesus is speaking to His sheep.

He doesn’t just know us and hope we figure it out, he is actively guiding and directing.

Jesus sacrifices for His sheep.

He is not in it form his own gain but for the welfare of those who hear his voice.

Jesus unites his flock.

More on this in John 17 but notice here that He and He alone provides the ability to be one flock.

Listen to Jesus’ voice.

Listen for waht He is saying.

Follow Jesus where He guides.

Don’t jsut hear and do whatever you want. Hear and follow. To love Jesus is to follow His commands.