The Good Shepherd
I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me. John 10:14
Earlier in the year, we learned about God’s name Jehovah Rohi, “The Lord Is My Shepherd.” In John 10:11–18, Jesus makes a stunning claim in His fourth “I am” statement: “I am the good shepherd.” Jesus wasn’t simply describing Himself as a shepherd; He was revealing that He is the divine Shepherd who had come in the flesh.
Sheep herding was a common profession in ancient Israel. Since the Israelites were a transient people, moving around for many years, they chose shepherding over farming. Shepherding is a vocation for transportable beings, not stationary land like farming. Sheep were vital to the economy and society, providing wool, milk, sheepskins, meat for special occasions, and a means for sacrifice.
In the early days of Israel, being a shepherd was a noble occupation, highly valued and respected. Shepherds had significant power and status because they controlled extensive sources of income. Biblical greats such as Abraham, Moses, and David each herded sheep during their early years. But, by the time Jesus came to earth, they had shifted to the margins of society. Keep in mind that shepherds were part of the Christmas story, being among the first to hear about and go see the baby Jesus.
Sheep are vulnerable to attack because they lack self-defense skills. They need constant attention and care and can be quite stubborn. They are herd animals and, as such, are natural followers but lack direction. They wander off and are easily lost without guidance. Sheep are anxious and scared animals. They simply cannot lie down to rest unless they feel safe and are at peace with their surroundings and fellow sheep. They can become immobilized by their wool’s thickness and weight and even collapse onto their backs, where they will die unless rescued.
The shepherd’s presence and loving care are critical for the well-being and survival of a flock of sheep. The shepherd protects the sheep from predators, guides them to safe pastures and water, rescues them when they stray, and meets their needs. The shepherd's calming presence, voice, and touch can also alleviate fear and anxiety among the sheep.
In John 10:11-18, Jesus stated that He knows His sheep, and they know His voice, representing an intimate, personal relationship with His followers. He also stated that He is willing to lay down His own life to rescue and protect His sheep. This foreshadowed His willing sacrifice on the cross to save humanity. Jesus also explained that He is bringing in "other sheep,” the lost. Through His sacrifice, Jesus united all believers into one single flock under one shepherd.
Like a shepherd, Jesus provides constant care and protection. He is always with us. He never abandons us. His presence brings comfort, not fear. In a world of hurry, pressure, and performance, Jesus offers us peace and rest. Because we are prone to wander, Jesus offers direction, spiritual restoration, and renewal. He promises abundant life now and His presence forever.
To be in relationship with the Good Shepherd and experience all that He has for us, we must spend time regularly with Him in prayer and Scripture study, listening for what He wants to reveal to us. We must also participate in a church community and seek spiritual mentorship.
Jesus is the loving, Good Shepherd who perfectly protects and cares for us and voluntarily sacrificed His life for our salvation. Just as sheep cannot thrive alone, we need our Shepherd. The Good Shepherd is constantly calling; our role is simply to respond and follow.
Call to Action
Consider your relationship with the Good Shepherd by asking yourself:
Am I regularly spending quiet time listening to God's voice?
Am I allowing Him to lead me or am I trying to do things myself?
Am I staying connected to a church community and looking to other spiritual leaders to help guide me and grow me in my faith?
What "wool" (burdens) am I carrying that need to be turned over to Him?
Challenge: Set aside 10 minutes each day this week for complete silence, praying and asking God to help you recognize His voice and spending time in His Word. Also, identify either someone who can mentor you spiritually or someone you can mentor in their faith journey.
Digging Deeper
Read these additional verses on sheep and shepherds: Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34, John 10:11-18.
Prayer
Jesus, thank you for being my Good Shepherd. Thank you for knowing me personally and loving, leading, and caring for me. When I wander or feel lost and alone, remind me that You are near. When I am afraid, help me to trust Your protection. When I don’t know which way to go, help me follow Your lead. When I wander or go the wrong way, rescue me. Help me to stay close and trust You completely.
Copyright © 2026 Kyle Cravens