The Good Shepherd: A Call to Follow and Trust
Text: John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
I. Introduction (5 minutes)
- Personal Story/Illustration:
Share a brief, emotional story about a shepherd or caregiver who went above and beyond to protect
and care for others. For example:
> “When I was a child, I visited a farm and watched a shepherd tirelessly care for his flock. He knew
each sheep by name, their tendencies, and even their injuries. His care wasn’t just work—it was love in
action.”
- Transition to the Text:
In John 10, Jesus identifies Himself as the Good Shepherd—a title that reflects His unparalleled care,
love, and sacrifice for us, His sheep.
II. The Character of the Good Shepherd (10 minutes)
1. The Good Shepherd Knows His Sheep
- Verse Reference: John 10:14 – “I know my sheep and my sheep know me.”
- Illustration:
Imagine a mother who knows her child’s cry in a crowded room. That’s how intimately Jesus knows
each of us—our struggles, fears, and needs.
- Application:
> “Jesus knows your name. He knows your story. He understands the pain you’ve never shared with
anyone. And He calls you to trust Him because He loves you personally.”
2. The Good Shepherd Protects His Sheep
- Verse Reference: John 10:11 – “The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
- Illustration:
Share a story of sacrificial love, such as a firefighter risking their life to save others.
> “Jesus didn’t just risk His life—He gave it willingly. On the cross, He faced the ultimate danger—sin
and death—for you and me.”
- Emotional Appeal:
Reflect on the depth of His sacrifice:
> “The nails didn’t hold Him to the cross. Love did. A love so fierce that He chose to die so you could
live.”
3. The Good Shepherd Leads His Sheep
- Verse Reference: John 10:4 – “When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and his
sheep follow him because they know his voice.”
- Illustration:
Picture a shepherd walking ahead of the flock, clearing dangers and guiding them to green pastures.
Jesus leads us through life’s challenges, offering direction and peace.
- Application:
> “Are you listening to His voice today? In a world filled with noise, the Shepherd’s voice offers clarity
and comfort.”
III. The Response of the Sheep (10 minutes)
1. Listen to the Shepherd
- Challenge:
> “The sheep know the Shepherd’s voice. But do you? Are you tuning into His Word or the distractions
of the world?”
- Illustration:
Share a story of someone hearing God’s call and finding peace amid chaos.
2. Trust the Shepherd
- Application:
> “Trusting Jesus means surrendering control and believing that He will lead you to what is best. Even
in the darkest valleys, the Good Shepherd walks with you.”
- Emotional Appeal:
Acknowledge common fears and uncertainties, and offer reassurance:
> “Maybe you’re in a valley right now—grief, loss, or uncertainty. Remember, the Shepherd is with you.
He never abandons His sheep.”
3. Follow the Shepherd
- Call to Action:
> “Following Jesus isn’t just hearing His voice; it’s walking in obedience. Are you willing to follow where
He leads?”
- Illustration:
Share an example of someone transformed by following Jesus wholeheartedly.
IV. Conclusion: The Shepherd’s Invitation (5 minutes)
- Recap the Key Points:
- Jesus knows you.
- Jesus protects you.
- Jesus leads you.
- Invitation:
> “Today, the Good Shepherd is calling your name. He’s inviting you to trust Him, to surrender your
fears, and to follow Him to abundant life.”
- Closing Story/Illustration:
End with a moving story of redemption or transformation, tying it to the Shepherd’s love.
- Prayer:
Lead the congregation in a prayer of surrender, inviting them to place their lives in the hands of the
Good Shepherd.
This script is designed to be emotionally engaging, drawing the audience into the depth of Jesus' love
and care as the Good Shepherd.
