The Shepherd and the Stranger

How does one know whether or not Jesus is the only way to the Father? What assurance do believers in Jesus have that their faith in him will bring them to their sought destination with God in Heaven? How do we know that Jesus is as he claimed, "the Way, the Truth, and the Life" (John 14:6)?

Perhaps it is easier if we consider this perplexing question through the lens of an illustration Jesus gave to his followers so they might have the assurance they sought in having right relationship with God.

John 10:1-21

The Sheep: Sheep are rather defenseless when it comes to fending for themselves. Were it not for a shepherd to guide them to and from pasture, they would often starve or find themselves lost or in danger. Sheep are vulnerable and a Shepherd has their interests in mind. A stranger has no regard for the sheep; in fact his motives are to steal the sheep from the shepherd for his own gain. Sheep are merely an object of contempt to the stranger, whereas they are the object of a shepherd's love.

The Voice: Although the sheep don't have much to offer in way of defense for themselves, they do possess a great ability to distinguish the voice of their shepherd from a stranger. Even when flocks are intermingled, the sheep do not follow the flow of the flock, but rather follow the voice of their master. When sheep hear someone imitate the voice of their master, they become frantic with fear and confusion. A stranger's voice communicates danger and confusion, whereas the shepherd's voice communicates safety and protection.

The Home: Sheep find safety within the boundaries of their sheep pen; protected from the dangers of the world outside. However, their is one vulnerability to their pen... the gate. The gate is where the shepherd would inspect and ensure an accounting of the flock for the owner. The good shepherd would even lie down at the entrance to the pen as an added sense of security for the flock. If a stranger held this position, the pen would not hold its same state of security. In the event of danger, a stranger would flee for his life - leaving the flock unprotected. The good shepherd, however, would be willing to lay down his life for his own sheep.

In Conclusion: Sheep live in a world where their only sense of security is found in their shepherd. A stranger is viewed in the light of an impostor and threat to the flock. Believers in Christ have an assurance of security in the provision God has given to them. The sheep know the voice of the Good Shepherd and are able to find their peace and comfort only in his provision.

We must be careful to guard against the voice and influence of strangers in our lives. Sheep are able to distinguish the voice of Jesus throughout the walk of their lives. Believers can have assurance for their eternal life only in the provisions of the Good Shepherd - Jesus Christ. Trust in his voice to lead you and you will find the peace and assurance you seek from God.