The Good Shepherd

Joh 10:12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.

A hireling shepherd does not protect his sheep. Maybe he is seeking his own things, finances, honor from men, friends with everyone who will advance his position, but not a faithful shepherd.

Joh 10:13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.

A shepherd does not take his sheep hunting for wolves, but when they come, often in sheep's fur, he should see them and remove them or remove the flock to a safe place. If the sheep prefer the wolf? Then maybe they are not sheep, but goats? The true sheep need protection and are not to be left with wolves, people with false words full of guile. Some flee and call it advancement. Remember that David was called as a shepherd who was faithful to his literal sheep. Be faithful in small things and the LORD will use you.

Jesus is the Good shepherd

Joh 10:14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.

The sheep feel safe with Jesus, they are at peace. He cares for them and they know him as they are known.

Joh 10:15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.

He knows God the father, making him a good shepherd. A shepherd who does not know the father is not a good shepherd, but a hireling. I wonder who hires some of these shepherds of the world, the politicians and leaders? Pray that they come to know the father and that they be faithful to him.

Joh 10:16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.

Jesus spoke in Israel to the Jews that he was sent to save.

Joh 1:11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

But there was another fold, the Gentiles from the other nations who will believe in him.

Joh 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
Joh 1:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ and it is the work of God. Jesus is the good shepherd who is faithful to his sheep. There are other faithful shepherds but none so good as our Good Shepherd.