The Light of Christ Journey

Encouraging people on their journey with Christ

Bringing Other Sheep into the Fold

Paula K. Graves

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February 4, 2026

Jesus spoke about bringing other sheep into the fold. John 10: 16 I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd. [1] Who were these other sheep? They were the Gentiles. Jesus, as a Jew, came to the Jews, but His sacrifice on the cross would be for all who would believe.

Jesus was a descendant of Abraham, with whom God had made a covenant. God had promised Abraham blessings for obeying His instructions. Abraham’s descendants would become a great nation, the Jews. Genesis 12: 3bAll the families on earth will be blessed through you.[2] This means that not only would Jesus be a blessing to the Jews, but to all families, including the Gentiles.

More Prophecy About the Gentiles

Isaiah was a prophet who lived more than 700 years before Jesus. God used him to make many prophecies about the Messiah whom God would send. Isaiah 49: 6 He (the Lord) says, “You (the Messiah) will do more than restore the people of Israel to me. I will make you a light to the Gentiles, and you will bring my salvation to the ends of the earth. [3]

When Mary and Joseph presented the baby Jesus at the Temple, a man named Simeon prophesied over Him. Luke 2: 30 I have seen your salvation, 31 which you have prepared for all people. 32 He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel! [4] God had told Simeon that this baby would be the one who could bring salvation to all people, including both Jew and Gentile.

Jesus had already declared Himself the Light of the World (John 8:12). Now Jesus spoke of one flock and one Shepherd. The night before the crucifixion, Jesus prayed for his disciples and future believers. John 17: 20 I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. 21 I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me. [5]

Gentiles Included

The Jews had become proud because they were the chosen people of God. But God had chosen them to demonstrate Himself to the nations. Jesus came as a remnant of One to fulfill God’s purpose. After Jesus returned to heaven and the Holy Spirit was given, the early church slowly began to reach out to Gentiles.

 First, Philip reached out to the Samaritans, and then to the Ethiopian eunuch. Then Peter went to the house of Cornelius. The Jewish believers began to understand God’s plan for the world. After Paul realized that Jesus was the Messiah, he spent the rest of his life evangelizing the known world.

Today, the basis of the one flock is our one Shepherd. Ephesians 2:14 For Christ himself has brought peace to us. He united Jews and Gentiles into one people when, in his own body on the cross, he broke down the wall of hostility that separated us. 15 He did this by ending the system of law with its commandments and regulations. He made peace between Jews and Gentiles by creating in himself one new people from the two groups. 16 Together as one body, Christ reconciled both groups to God by means of his death on the cross, and our hostility toward each other was put to death.[6] Jesus was bringing other sheep into the fold. To find out more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/jesus-said-i-am-the-good-shepherd

[1-6] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

The Sacrifice of the Good Shepherd

Paula K. Graves

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February 3, 2026

Jesus tells us about the sacrifice of the good shepherd. John 10:11I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep.[1] Jesus’ audience was well aware that the life of a shepherd could be dangerous. Large predators, like wolves, love a meal of lamb. The shepherd had to protect his sheep, even if it meant risking his life.

A sacrifice is the act of giving up something highly valued for the sake of something else considered to have a greater value or claim.[2] The Jews of Jesus’ time regularly sacrificed sheep or goats to pay the blood price for their sins. Sin separates us from God and condemns us. The Old Testament animal sacrifices were temporary and had to be repeated year after year.

Jesus took the fate we sinful people deserved. We could not pay the price for our salvation, so Jesus did it for us on the cross. His blood is the all-sufficient sacrifice. Hebrews 10: 12 But our High Priest (Jesus) offered himself to God as a single sacrifice for sins, good for all time… 14 For by that one offering he forever made perfect those who are being made holy. [3]

Jesus Knew His Purpose

God sent Jesus to earth with a purpose. Galatians 1:4 Jesus gave his life for our sins, just as God our Father planned, in order to rescue us from this evil world in which we live.[4] Jesus was well aware of the Father’s plans and taught this to those who were listening.

John 10:14 I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, 15 just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep… 17 “The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again. 18 No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded.” [5]

Jesus’ life was valuable, but He was willing to give it for something He considered more valuable: you and me. His whole purpose was to come and offer the gift of a restored relationship with God, both here on earth and in eternity.

Jesus Knew He Would Rise from the Dead

Jesus said He would, of His own accord, sacrifice His life. The Romans indeed nailed Jesus to the cross, but He voluntarily died. Matthew 27: 50 Then Jesus shouted out again, and he released his spirit.[6] But what good is a dead shepherd?

Jesus also knew He would rise again. This is what He meant when He told the Pharisees that He would take up His life again. He says this twice and notes that the Father had commanded it. Jesus was the first fruit of those resurrected. This assures us, as believers, of the hope of our own resurrection and eternal life. To learn more about the sacrifice of the Good Shepherd, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/jesus-said-i-am-the-good-shepherd

[1,3-6] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

[2] The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition

Failure of the Hireling Shepherd

Tom Graves

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February 2, 2026

Jesus describes the failure of the hireling or false shepherd as harmful to the sheep. John 10:12 A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. 13 The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep. [1] 

As you reflect on this verse, it becomes clear that the motives of the hierling are worldly, and when life gets tough, he quickly abandons the sheep. Unfortunately, we live in a sinful world, and satan is at work daily trying to destroy the church. Paul gives us wisdom for the spiritual battle. Ephesians 6:11Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.[2]

In essence, a hireling or false shepherd is an attack on the church and is often very subtle. As believers, we need to spend time in God’s Word, so we know the truth, which Paul calls the sword of the Spirit. In many ways, the word is the foundation of our shield of faith against the fiery arrows of the enemy.

The Hireling Looks Out Only for Himself

Self-interest drives a hireling’s concern rather than genuine love for the sheep. They tend to abandon their duty when their own interests are at risk. In contrast, Jesus, the Good Shepherd, behaves out of sacrificial love and commitment. The hireling’s greatest mistake is abandoning the sheep when the “wolf” appears, leaving them exposed to scattering and harm.

In a spiritual sense, this “wolf” can symbolize false teachings, persecution, or other threats or temptations. Unlike the hireling, Jesus remains devoted to his followers, remaining with them through every trial. While the hireling cares only for his own life, Jesus sacrificed his life for his sheep. This act is the ultimate demonstration of love and forms the core of the Christian faith.

The hireling represents inadequate or morally corrupt leaders in the church who prioritize their own comfort, reputation, or profit over the care of the flock. Ezekiel 34, which condemns Israel’s greedy shepherds, serves as a significant Old Testament parallel and warning to false shepherds today.

Our Need for Jesus

Amidst the work of false shepherds, the true Shepherd is working in the hearts of God’s people to provide guidance and direction, leading us to repentance. The Apostle Paul was a persecutor of those in the early church until Jesus met him on the road to Damascus. Paul gives us insight into his heart. 1Corinthians 15:9For I am the least of all the apostles. In fact, I’m not even worthy to be called an apostle after the way I persecuted God’s church. [3]

The life of Paul clearly shows how much God cares for believers and seeks to change the hearts of those who hurt His sheep. Do you feel God working in your heart today, giving you a thirst for His word? If so, the Holy Spirit is awakening you to bring revival to your life so you know the truth and are not led astray.

To learn more about the failure of the hireling, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/jesus-said-i-am-the-good-shepherd

[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Characteristics of the Good Shepherd

Tom Graves

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February 1, 2026

Have you ever thought about how the characteristics of the Good Shepherd have impacted your life? Scripture often calls believers “sheep” because they share many traits. Psalm 100:3Acknowledge that the Lord is God! He made us, and we are his. We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.” [1]

Sheep lack a sense of direction, are almost defenseless, are easily frightened, and can’t find food or water on their own. Without the Good Shepherd, Jesus, individuals lack guidance, safety, and spiritual nourishment. They become vulnerable to harm, risk being led astray by others, and are unable to find the “spiritual food and water” they require. As an older adult, I have realized that I am more like a sheep than I want to admit. This is especially true when I consider how many times I know the Lord has intervened in my life.

The Shepherd Puts Himself Before the Sheep

In life, it’s easy to put ourselves before others, but our Savior Jesus is not like that. John 10:11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep.[2] If we wonder how much the Lord loves us, we only need to meditate on that verse. Jesus provides further insight into this incredible sacrifice. John 3:16 “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.[3]

Not only does Jesus give His life for us, but in doing so, He also pays the price for our sins, allowing us to place our faith in Him and receive eternal life. The entire Gospel centers on this verse. God doesn’t restrict His love to a particular group of people; He extends it to the whole world. God’s love is not self-centered; it reaches out and draws others in.

The Shepherd Knows His Sheep

John 10:14 I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me.[4] Knowing the Good Shepherd and being known by Him reflects the relationship believers share with Jesus. Historically, we may be familiar with important people from the past, but that doesn’t mean we truly know them. Knowing Jesus isn’t just about learning facts about Him, but about having a close personal relationship with Him.

Our Lord is aware when we are joyful or weighed down by life’s burdens. God wants to guide you today, and when we are in a relationship with Him, we also desire His guidance. What challenges are you facing? Where do you seek direction? Where do you need help? Jesus assures you that He is your Good Shepherd. The Most High God is on your side, and you can trust His guidance. Jesus was faithful to come and die so that you might have eternal life. If He is faithful to lead you to heaven, He will also guide you through your current trials.

To learn more about the characteristics of the Good Shepherd, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/jesus-said-i-am-the-good-shepherd

[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Jesus’ Purpose

Paula K. Graves

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January 31, 2026

The thief’s purpose is to get, but Jesus’ purpose is to give. John 10: 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.[1] Here life is the Greek word zoe. This means the absolute fullness of life, life real and genuine, a life active and vigorous, devoted to God.[2]

Jesus tells us that we get this full life abundantly. The Greek word translated as abundantly is perissos. It means exceeding abundantly, supremely, much more than all, superior, extraordinary, surpassing, uncommon, more remarkable, more excellent.[3] That is a long list of adjectives!

We can see that Jesus promises us something beyond our imaginations. 1 Corinthians 2: 9 But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him.”[4]

What is Abundant Life?

The abundant life is spiritual, not material, and defined by a relationship with Jesus. Nowhere does Jesus promise wealth and long life. He does, however, promise to supply what we need. Matthew 6: 30 And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?

31 “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ 32 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. 33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. [5]

The Holy Spirit will guide the true, abundant life. Galatians 5: 22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. 25 Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. [6]

Focus on the Eternal

Jesus gave His life for us on the cross, and when we come to faith, He gives us life right now. In our culture, there have been spiritual thieves who have deceived the sheep. Many are discovering how unsatisfying materialism is. They are looking for something more, something real. Jesus is calling us to listen to His voice and to come and follow Him.

When we come to Jesus, He begins to transform our lives in the power of the Holy Spirit. We can have peace as we follow Jesus in this world, and assurance of more to come in the eternal world. Colossians 3: 1Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. 2 Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. 3 For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory. [7] To learn more about Jesus’ purpose, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/jesus-said-i-am-the-good-shepherd

[1,4] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). Crossway Bibles.

[2,3]Strong, J. (1995). In Enhanced Strong’s Lexicon. Woodside Bible Fellowship.

[5-7] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Satan’s Purpose

Paula K. Graves

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January 30, 2026

What is satan’s purpose on this earth? Jesus tells us. John 10:10a The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy.[1] We first see this thief in Genesis chapter three, where he seeks to deceive Adam and Eve, whom God had created. Genesis 3:1The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the Lord God had made. One day he asked the woman, “Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?” [2]  

When Adam and Eve fell into sin by eating the fruit God told them not to, the enemy successfully deceived them and, in essence, stole their innocence. As history unfolded, the disease of sin spread from one generation to the next, leading to God’s intervention at the cross at Calvary. John 3:16 For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.[3]

Satan Wants to Isolate You

When you’re going through tough times, remember the Lord is with you and aware of your situation. Our enemy might try to use these challenging times to pull you off your path, but continue moving forward in the Lord’s strength. Peter warns us of the enemy’s work. 1 Peter 1:8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. “[4] Our enemy is not to be taken lightly because he desires to devour you.

Peter continued his warning in the next verse 1 Peter 1:9Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are. [5] Just like a wolf quietly stalking a wounded animal, when we are hurting, the enemy picks up on our pain. Satan’s goal is to make you doubt God’s love and to try to cut off your connection with Him. Remember, while the enemy wants to isolate you, the Lord wants to draw you closer to Himself and other believers.

We Can Fight Back Against Our Enemy

In our times of suffering, God invites us to trust Him more deeply, encouraging us to connect more with His people and lean on Him like never before. As we find ourselves in this spiritual battle, Paul explains how we can fight back. Ephesians 10:10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.[6]  

We remain strong in God’s power as we look up and stay in relationship with Him. We accomplish this through faith in Jesus as our Savior, God’s word, prayer, worship, and dependence on the Holy Spirit. The question isn’t whether we will face suffering, but when. When it does, let’s choose to follow God’s purpose rather than give in to Satan’s purpose.

To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/jesus-said-i-am-the-gate

[1-6] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

The Danger of False Shepherds

Tom Graves

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January 29, 2026

We see the danger of false shepherds throughout God’s word. Jesus provides insight into the difference between a real and a false shepherd. John 10:1“I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber! 2 But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep.[1] There are many false shepherds today, even within the Christian church, who twist God’s word and, in a figurative sense, are thieves and robbers.

The book of Genesis is the foundation of the Bible and is also among the most criticized for being made up of fairy tales. Moses authored the first five books of the Bible, as cited in Joshua 8:31. In one story, after his brother and sister complain to God, the Lord responds to them. Numbers 12:2But the Lord heard them. 3 (Now Moses was very humble—more humble than any other person on earth.) [2] Describing Moses as the humblest person on earth portrays someone who is a true shepherd and does not deceive people with fairy tale stories. Calling many of the stories in Genesis fairy tales sounds like the opinion of a thief and a robber who is trying to destroy the foundation of God’s word.

How Can I Recognize a False Shepherd?

 When discerning whether someone is a false shepherd, the Lord provides us with clear instructions. James 1:5 If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. [3]

A true shepherd will uphold sound doctrines that align with the teaching of God’s word. Paul gives instructions for leaders. Titus 1:9He must have a strong belief in the trustworthy message he was taught; then he will be able to encourage others with wholesome teaching and show those who oppose it where they are wrong.[4] This means that a faithful shepherd not only lovingly shares the truth but also addresses any errors that don’t match God’s word.

 Additionally, consider the fruits of those teachings. Jesus highlights how we can identify genuine leaders in Matthew 7:16-20 by their fruitfulness. The fruit of the Spirit marks true shepherds who should naturally reflect Christ’s love.

Spending Time with God and His Word

 As I spend time in God’s word, worship, and prayer, the Lord helps me grow in discernment and wisdom to understand what is true. Similarly, a bank teller does not study counterfeit currency but the real bills to recognize a fake. Spending time in God’s Word isn’t just about gathering more knowledge. In this information age, we’ve become experts at absorbing facts, but our faith is more than that. It’s about developing a relationship with our Savior, who is the authentic Shepherd.

Jesus tells us how the sheep should discern the danger of false shepherds. John 10:5They (sheep) won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice. [5] To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/jesus-said-i-am-the-gate

[1-5] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Jesus is the Gate

Paula K. Graves

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January 28, 2026

Jesus is the Gate. He was using a common image to explain a spiritual reality. His first-century listeners would have been knowledgeable about sheep and shepherds. Those of us in the twenty-first century are not as familiar with a sheepfold and need more information.

A first-century sheepfold was a rock wall enclosure of loosely stacked stones. It protected against thieves, wolves, and other predators. These structures did not always have a gate. Many times, the shepherd himself would sleep across the opening to protect the sheep from harm. As the sheep entered the fold in the evening, the shepherd would inspect each one for any problems. Occasionally, multiple flocks would be in the sheepfold. In the morning, each shepherd would call his sheep out, and only his flock would exit and follow him because they knew his voice.

Characteristics of a Gate

Jesus was trying to explain spiritual truths to the Jewish leadership using the metaphor of a shepherd and a sheepfold. John 10: 6 Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what he meant, 7 so he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. 9 Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. [1]

As the Gate, Jesus protected the sheep. Any predator who wanted to harm the sheep had to face Jesus first. Thus, thieves could not go through the gate but were forced to climb over the wall. Jesus also showed compassion to the sheep as they entered the gate. The narrow opening forced the sheep to enter one by one, allowing the shepherd to check for injuries or disease.

Salvation is Only Through Jesus

The gate also acted as a dividing line; either you are in or you are out. This forces a decision. When we hear the Word of Jesus, we can accept it as truth and obey, or we can choose not to. We live in a world that promotes tolerance at the expense of truth. Later, Jesus will ask the Father that all believers will follow the truth. John 17: 15 I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. 16 They do not belong to this world any more than I do. 17 Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.[2]

The only way to eternal life is through Jesus, the Gate. Early in His ministry, Jesus explained this to Nicodemus. It still holds true for us today. John 3: 16 “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life… 18 “There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God’s one and only Son.[3]

Jesus is the Gate, and as such, can save us, believers, for eternity. This salvation begins the moment we believe, and Jesus shows us good pastures even in this corrupt world. To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/jesus-said-i-am-the-gate

[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Jesus Goes Ahead of Us

Tom Graves

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January 27, 2026

Jesus goes ahead of us. That is a comforting thought and reveals how much He loves us. Jesus illustrates the sheep-and-shepherd relationship of going ahead, and, in a spiritual sense, this is what Jesus does in our lives. John 10:4 After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. 5 They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.” [1]

When the shepherd goes before the sheep, it shows how much the sheep rely on him to lead them to the right pasture and water. In many ways, we are like sheep because we don’t know which path to take in life, but our Lord does. As He goes before us, He leads us to experience life with Him that we would not discover on our own. In fact, when we try to live without being led by our good Shepherd, we find our lives becoming an ongoing train wreck.

Giving our Free Will to God

As I have grown in my faith, I have prayed many times to surrender my free will to the Lord so He can guide my path. Perhaps you’ve done the same, or maybe the Lord is prompting you to say that prayer today. David may have been contemplating something similar. Psalm 23:1The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. 2 He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. 3 He renews my strength. He guides me along the right paths, bringing honor to his name. 4 Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. [2]

As you meditate on the words David wrote, the compassion and care of the shepherd seem to come alive. Not only does the shepherd love his sheep, but the sheep love the shepherd. This is what having a relationship with Jesus is all about: we move from reluctantly letting the Shepherd lead us to genuinely desiring His guidance. In God’s infinite grace, He gives us free will, but to be led by Him, we lovingly give it back to Him so He can lead us.

God Has a Plan for Our Lives

Have you ever stopped to wonder what your life might look like if Jesus hadn’t gone before you? Remember, God has excellent plans just for you, and that is why He goes ahead of us so His plans can unfold in our lives. He knew about you even before you were born, understanding every detail—from the hairs on your head to every thought you have, and each day you’re given on this earth. It’s clear that such careful attention isn’t left to chance.

Rest assured, God’s plans for you are filled with goodness and hope. Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. [3] His plan is good because of the purpose it serves. It is good because of the hope it provides. But really, it is good simply because of the God who calls it so. As you go through your day, quiet your spirit, listen to the voice of the Shepherd, and follow Him, and your life will never be the same.

To learn how Jesus goes ahead of us, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/jesus-said-i-am-the-gate

[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Sheep Know Their Spiritual Shepherd

Tom Graves

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January 26, 2026

Sheep know their spiritual shepherd because they have a relationship with their Savior, Jesus. In the Bible, believers are called sheep and share many of the same characteristics. There’s something about a relationship with our Savior that lets us hear His voice above the noise of everyday life, just as sheep recognize their shepherd’s voice.

Jesus provides insight into this shepherd-sheep relationship. John 10:3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice.[1]

In the Middle East, a shepherd enters a busy sheepfold and personally calls out to each sheep by name. Because he spends so much time with them, they recognize his voice and feel comfortable coming to him. They know him well and trust his voice completely. Even if someone else tries to call them using the correct names, they won’t follow because they listen for that special voice they trust. As people of faith, we are the sheep of His pasture, and just as sheep recognize the voice of their shepherd, we can also identify the voice of our spiritual Shepherd.

Trusting our Shepherd

Trust develops as the shepherd cares for their sheep. Similarly, as we grow in our relationship with Jesus, our trust deepens. When I was 36, I felt the Lord calling me to change careers and become a pastor. Even though I was married with three young children and a good job, I knew I could trust the Lord even in this life-changing decision.

Perhaps you’ve experienced something similar, taking a leap of faith because you believed in your Savior’s voice. Or maybe you’re just starting your relationship with the Lord and learning to hear His voice better. If you are growing in hearing the voice of the Lord, keep spending time with Him in His word, worship, and prayer. As we do, God does something in our hearts that not only helps us hear His voice but also increases our desire to follow His guidance.

God’s Voice Leads us in the Right Direction.

A friend I went to school with was a believer, but over time drifted onto the broad road of the world. Then one day, the Lord intervened in a way that made His voice heard clearly. Responding to God’s voice, he returned to the narrow road. Like sheep, we sometimes go astray, but our Shepherd is always watching over us, caring and intervening.

I believe we would be shocked if we knew how many times the Lord had to call us back because we were wandering into danger. Not only does our Savior keep us out of danger, but knowing His voice keeps us away from the enemy who wants to lead us away from Him. John 10:8 All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them.[2]  If you are unsure about what to do in life, listen to the voice of the Shepherd, and He will guide your way. To learn more about how sheep know their spiritual Shepherd, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/jesus-said-i-am-the-gate

[1,2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

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