Shepherds and sheep come up repeatedly in the Bible. Referring to people as sheep isn’t always meant to be disdainful, but it’s always meant to teach.
To Think About:
- Read John 10:7-18. What are the characteristics of a good shepherd, and how does Jesus embody these qualities in his role as our shepherd? What implications does this have for your relationship with him?
- Read 1 Peter 5:1-4. How can church leaders strike the balance between authority and humility? How can the principles outlined in these verses be applied to our everyday lives, even if we’re not church leaders?
- In Acts 20, Paul is speaking to the elders from the church in Ephesus. He knows he’ll never be able to see them again. Read verses 28-31. “Savage wolves” and those who “distort the truth” describe people’s actions within a church family. How can today’s churches and leaders protect against destructive influences within the church? What can you do to ensure you aren’t a wolf in sheep’s clothing?
To Pray About:
- Bring to God the name of each of the shepherds of your church family. Be mindful of their place as sheep, their families, and their responsibility.
- Bring to God your responsibility as a sheep under the Great Shepherd.
- Bring to God your responsibility as a sheep under your church shepherds.
To Live Out:
Live out what you prayed for. Be your own answered prayer by relying on God’s Spirit to lead you from words in prayer to actions in life.
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