In studying the Bible, we will discover a recurring motif of shepherds and sheep. In the opening pages of inspiration, Abel is set as the world’s first shepherd (Genesis 4:2). Later, Moses is charged with keeping Jethro’s flocks (Exodus 3:1). One of the most widely known shepherds of all might be King David (1 Samuel 16:11). While these men (and many others) served as shepherds at various points in life, none would carry the same weight of responsibility nor the depth of love as the Good Shepherd Himself, Jesus. A look at John 10 will reveal the significance of our Lord’s role as the Good Shepherd. Offers His Life What sets the Good Shepherd apart from all others? For one, He was not only willing to give His life for the sake of His sheep, but He actually did it. Prior to being anointed as king, David faced the danger of confronting various wild beasts for the sake of his father’s sheep. He risked his life but did not lose it for the flock (1 Samuel 17:34–36). On the other hand, Jesus knew the dangers that lay ahead of Him, and yet, He pressed on. In a discussion with Peter, Jesus spoke plainly of His fate. “From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day” (Matthew 16:21). It is

When opening the New Testament, one is soon introduced to its central figure, Jesus. He is addressed in several ways, but what do those names and titles mean? Who was Jesus of Nazareth? His Heritage Jesus of Nazareth was a real person who lived in first century Israel. He was born to Jewish parents (Mary and Joseph) who could trace their heritage back to the twelve tribes of Israel. Matthew’s record of the Gospel begins with the genealogical record. “The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham” (Matthew 1:1 NKJV). Luke’s record also demonstrates Jesus to be the descendant of both Abraham and David (Luke 3:31, 34). These records serve two purposes. First, they show that Jesus could be traced to the two men who were prophesied to be the ancestors of the anointed Messiah of God. Abraham: “I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you; And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed” (Genesis 12:3). David: “‘Behold, the days are coming,’ says the Lord, ‘That I will raise to David a Branch of righteousness; A King shall reign and prosper, And execute judgment and righteousness in the earth’” (Jeremiah 23:5). Second, they serve as validation of the fact that Jesus was a real historical figure who could be connected to other real historical figures. When Mary was pregnant with Jesus, she and Joseph had to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem in order to participate in

A question often asked is, “Is it a sin to be angry?” In short, the answer is, no. A person can come to that conclusion because the Bible informs us that the Lord Himself got angry. “And when He had looked around at them with anger, being grieved by the hardness of their hearts, He said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ And he stretched it out, and his hand was restored as whole as the other” (Mark 3:5 NKJV). Yes, Jesus was angry, and yet, according to Hebrews 4:15, He was “without sin.” Further, the apostle Paul wrote, “Be angry, and do not sin…” (Ephesians 4:26). It would seem the Scriptures give allowance for anger, yet those same Scriptures reveal the purpose for anger and instructions on how a person should exhibit or demonstrate his anger. Purpose When God made man and saw the whole of creation, the Bible says, “it was very good” (Genesis 1:31). That would necessarily include the range of emotions (including anger) God created man to have. Anger has a purpose. When a person sees sin, wickedness, injustice, abuse and other such things, anger should prompt him to intervene and bring justice and correction. When Jesus saw His Father’s house being used to take advantage of those seeking to worship, Jesus sprang into action and cleansed the Temple by turning over tables and driving out the money changers. Anger should be used to bring about righteous change. Demonstration First, a person should be self-controlled

The Scriptures clearly teach that we are to be faithful disciples and to go out and make more disciples from among all people (Matthew 28:18-20). So, you may be wondering, “What can I do to enhance my service and be more dedicated as a disciple?” Below is a short list of things you can start doing today to grow closer to the Christ and to develop in your walk with Him. Spend Time in Prayer “And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom he also named apostles” (Luke 6:12-13 KJV). Before committing to the great work ahead of Him and choosing a dedicated group of followers, the Lord prayed to His Father in Heaven. Each of us should spend time talking to God in prayer (Luke 18:1). Ask God for opportunities to grow and to develop. Pray for the strength and patience to grow and to develop (Matthew 9:37-38). Pray for those who are leading and helping you. Rest assured, God does hear the prayers requesting wisdom and development (James 1:5). Spend Time Getting to Know Jesus “And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach” (Mark 3:14, emphasis added). Notice in the text that Jesus desired a one-on-one relationship with His devoted followers to develop