March 9th, 2025
The Heart of the Shepherd
(John 10:7-21)
Key Point: The heart of the Shepherd is revealed in His care for His sheep, His compassion in sacrifice, and His character in knowing and leading them to life.
- The Gate- His Care (10:7-10)
- Jesus is the only access to life!
- The evil one comes to abolish life!
- Jesus came to give abundant life!
- The Good Shepherd- His Compassion (10:11-13)
- Jesus sacrifices Himself for the sheep.
- The hired hand scurries at the sight of danger.
- The wolf snatches and scatters the sheep.
- The hired hand has no heart for the sheep.
- The Good Shepherd- His Character (10:14-21)
- Jesus loves the sheep!
- Jesus leads the lost sheep to salvation!
- Jesus lays His life down and lifts His life up.
- The people are torn over Jesus!
1. Enter Through the Gate – Trust Jesus Fully
- Stop looking for life in temporary things and surrender fully to Jesus as the only way to true life.
- Evaluate: Are there areas where you’re still trying to “climb in another way”?
- Next Step: Spend intentional time in prayer this week, reaffirming your trust in Christ as your Shepherd and asking Him to guide your steps.
2. Stay Close to the Shepherd – Follow Him Daily
- Don’t just hear His voice—obey it. Stay near through prayer, Scripture, and community.
- Identify: What voices are competing for your attention? Are you listening more to culture, fear, or self-reliance than to Jesus?
- Next Step: Set aside daily time to listen to the Shepherd’s voice—whether through Bible study, worship, or silence before God.
3. Invite Others into the Fold – Share His Love Boldly
- Jesus spoke of other sheep who still need to be brought in—our mission is to share the Good Shepherd with them!
- Consider: Who in your life needs to hear about Jesus? How can you practically show His care, compassion, and character?
- Next Step: Identify one person this week to pray for and intentionally share Jesus with—through a conversation, an act of love, or an invitation to church.