I AM Part 5: The Good Shepherd
John 10:(1-5), 11-21, Ezekiel 34:11-16, Psalm 23
Memory Verse:
“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me – just as the Father knows me and I know the Father – and I lay down my life for the sheep.”
John 10:14-15
Message Reflection Questions
Begin in silence, recognizing the presence of Jesus. Imagine Jesus as your shepherd.
Read Psalm 23 as a prayer. Which one of those lines do you need most this week?
Is it difficult to consider yourself a sheep of a Shepherd? Why or why not?
How have you experienced God as Shepherd?
Compare the shepherd imagery of Ezekiel 34:11-16 and John 10:11-18. Why is this important to believe about Jesus?
Why is it important for today’s church to remember what Jesus says in John 10:16?
What can we learn about being a leader or influencer in our home and workplace and church from Jesus’ example as the Good Shepherd?
How can you follow Jesus as the Shepherd this week?
Close in prayer with Psalm 23.
Daily Readings
We are reading the entire gospel of John until the season of Lent. As we read, follow the guidance for reading below.
Monday: John 11:28-57
Tuesday: John 12:1-26
Wednesday: John 12:27-50
Thursday: John 13:1-20
Friday: John 13:21-38
Helpful Instructions for reading
Start with silence. Recognize that the Jesus in scripture is the Jesus with you where you are.
Thank God for something that happened in the last 24 hours.
Keep a list of names and descriptions of Jesus from the text. If someone calls him “messiah” write down Messiah, if he’s friendly, write down “friendly.” Ask: how can I receive Jesus as “Messiah” or “friendly”?
Finish in prayer for yourself, your family, your neighbors, your co-workers, your church. Pray through the nations at www.prayercast.com/nations.html.