The Good Shepherd - John 10:11-21

Introduction:

Sheep are often smarter than we think:

They develop loyalty and friendships

They recognize famial faces and places

They protect themselves by following the sheep in front of them

They stay with the flock for group safety

Jesus IS:

A. Present tense - today, right now

B. Eternally - good and unchanging - Psalm 23:6 (NLT)

C. Always - nurturing and caring

Jesus SPEAKS and we LISTEN:

A. The Word of God

B. Biblical instruction - Luke 24:27 (NIV)

C. Uplifting input - Philippians 4:8 (NLT)

D. Collective encouragement - Hebrews 10:25 (NLT)

Jesus GATHERS:

A. The stragglers

B. The wayward

C. The distracted

D. The rest

Jesus ACKNOWLEDGES:

A. Their worth

B. Their needs

C. Their conditon

D. Their individuality

We AFFIRM:

A. His voice

B. His goodness

C. His judgment

We RESPOND:

O God, whose Son Jesus is the good shepherd of your people: Grant that when we hear his voice we may know him who calls us each by name, and follow where he leads; who, with you and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 23

A psalm of David.

1 The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. 2 He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. 3  He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. 4 Even when I walk through the darkest valley,[a] I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. 5 You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. 6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.