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{I AM} #4

 “I AM [the Good Shepherd]” 

John 10:1-21_ 

 
Shepherds in the ancient world had a close bond with their sheep. Lambs were raised almost like children with plenty of hugs and affection. The shepherd would call his sheep by name, and the sheep would follow him because they knew that protection and nourishment came from the shepherd’s skillful care. The sheep also responded to the shepherd’s voice because they knew he loved them and that he was concerned about their well-being. Security and satisfaction came from staying close to the shepherd. 

 

[Group discussion starter] What person in your family or circle of friends makes you feel most secure and loved? What does that person do to convey their affection? 

 

 
Jesus uses the familiar image of a shepherd and his sheep to illustrate his love for his followers and our value to him. We are his prized possession – a possession he guides and protects and cares for, just as a shepherd nurtures his flock of sheep. Jesus’ words bring comfort and assurance to people who live in a very threatening and insecure world... 

 
[Read John 10:1-21] 

 

As you scan back through the passage, list all the things that the shepherd does for the sheep. 

 

 

 

 

Which of these do you think is most important in the person who “shepherds” your life, and why? 
 

 
What responsibilities are placed on the sheep in this passage? 
 

 
Who or what is represented by the thief or the wolf in Jesus’ story? 

 

Compare the goals of the thief and the wolf with the goals of the shepherd. 

 
 

Several times Jesus says that the Good Shepherd lays down his life for the sheep (verses 11, 15, 17-18). How does Jesus’ sacrifice of himself make you feel about yourself? How does it make you feel about Jesus? 
 

 

In verses 17-18, why does Jesus emphasise that he lays down his life of his own accord? 
 

 
How do Jesus’ listeners respond to his words (verses 6, 19-21)? 
 

Why do you think his words create such a difference in opinion? 
 

 
How do people respond today to Jesus’ gracious offer to be their shepherd? 
 

 
Even under the watchful eye of a shepherd, sheep can wander off. In what situations have you left (or been tempted to leave) the safety of Jesus’ care? 
 

 
What is the Good Shepherd’s response to us when we wander off? 
 

 
What have you learned about Jesus in this passage that will help you when you (or a friend) struggle with accepting Jesus’ love? 

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