Shepherd or Sheepdog?

Services

Sunday - 10AM Worship Service & Bible Blast | Wednesday - 7PM Prayer & Praise

by: Gene Ziesel

05/16/2025

0

Good morning, my friends,
I’ve observed that in life, there are both drivers and leaders, whether in ministry or the workplace. It is often stated that “To lead people is not to manipulate, or drive them!” In our Sunday study of John 10, I discovered that sheepdogs often forcefully guide the sheep. In contrast, a biblical shepherd is meant to walk gently ahead of the sheep, guiding them to their next destination.
The difference between the sheepdog and the shepherd is crucial. The shepherd aims to guide the Lord’s followers, and through our influence, we lead others in various ways, be it our children, friends, or coworkers. As leaders, we frequently need to reflect on which role we are embodying.
To church leaders, we are called to lead as shepherds, trusting in the Good Shepherd to guide us. In John 10:1-16, it conveys that when we lead appropriately, our followers will recognize His voice and not be drawn to another. We desire for them not to follow anyone else, even if we may look like that alternative.
As shepherds, part of our role is to exalt Jesus, who stated in John 6:37, "All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out.”
Today, take a moment to consider a situation or person you feel inclined to “forcibly maneuver." Afterwards, pray for guidance from the Lord on how to act as a shepherd in their life, rather than a sheepdog.
 32 And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself. ~ John 12:32
Blessings on your shepherding,
GeneSh
Blog comments will be sent to the moderator
Good morning, my friends,
I’ve observed that in life, there are both drivers and leaders, whether in ministry or the workplace. It is often stated that “To lead people is not to manipulate, or drive them!” In our Sunday study of John 10, I discovered that sheepdogs often forcefully guide the sheep. In contrast, a biblical shepherd is meant to walk gently ahead of the sheep, guiding them to their next destination.
The difference between the sheepdog and the shepherd is crucial. The shepherd aims to guide the Lord’s followers, and through our influence, we lead others in various ways, be it our children, friends, or coworkers. As leaders, we frequently need to reflect on which role we are embodying.
To church leaders, we are called to lead as shepherds, trusting in the Good Shepherd to guide us. In John 10:1-16, it conveys that when we lead appropriately, our followers will recognize His voice and not be drawn to another. We desire for them not to follow anyone else, even if we may look like that alternative.
As shepherds, part of our role is to exalt Jesus, who stated in John 6:37, "All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out.”
Today, take a moment to consider a situation or person you feel inclined to “forcibly maneuver." Afterwards, pray for guidance from the Lord on how to act as a shepherd in their life, rather than a sheepdog.
 32 And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself. ~ John 12:32
Blessings on your shepherding,
GeneSh
cancel save

0 Comments on this post:

write a comment
post comment cancel