Shepherd’s Voice
Recently Pastor Drew Shofner, Lead Pastor at the Church at Severn Run, provided a message on the importance of listening to the Shepherd’s (God’s) voice. John provides profound teachings that guide us as Christ’s followers. John 10:27-28 holds powerful lessons that shape our understanding of our relationship with Christ.
Let’s explore the wisdom found in these verses and discuss practical ways to apply them in our daily lives. Drawing upon other Bible references as well, we can deepen our understanding of these teachings.
Listening to the Shepherd’s Voice: Developing Intimacy with Christ
In John 10:27, Jesus speaks of His sheep hearing His voice. As followers of Christ, we are called to listen attentively to the voice of our Good Shepherd. This requires spending time in prayer, studying God’s Word, and cultivating a personal relationship with Him. Psalm 46:10 encourages us to “Be still, and know that I am God.” By actively seeking and discerning His voice, we can align our lives with His will and experience a deepened intimacy with Him.
Following with Unwavering Trust: Surrendering to God’s Guidance
John 10:27 also emphasizes the importance of following the Shepherd. As Christians, we are called to trust in God’s leading and guidance. This means surrendering our own plans and desires to His divine will. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” By trusting in His wisdom, we can navigate life’s challenges with confidence, knowing that He is faithfully leading us.
Experiencing Eternal Security: The Assurance of Salvation
The latter part of John 10:28 assures believers that they will never perish and we will have eternal life. This verse offers a profound message of security and hope. As Christians, we can find solace in knowing that our salvation is secure in Christ. Romans 8:38-39 beautifully declares, “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Our eternal security provides a firm foundation for living confidently and fearlessly in Him.
Sharing the Shepherd’s Love: Becoming His Ambassadors
As recipients of God’s love and grace, we are called to reflect His love to others. John 13:34-35 states, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this, all people will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another.” Our love for others is to mirror Christ’s sacrificial love, transcending boundaries and reaching out to the lost, broken, and marginalized. By living out His love, we become His ambassadors, drawing others into a transformative relationship with Him.
Applying the teachings of John 10:27-28 enriches our lives as Christians. By actively listening to the Shepherd’s voice, following His guidance, and trusting in His leading, we develop an intimate relationship with Christ. The assurance of eternal security allows us to live confidently in His grace. Moreover, sharing the Shepherd’s love enables us to impact the world around us and fulfill our calling as His disciples. Let us embrace these teachings and walk in the fullness of our faith, knowing that we are deeply loved, cherished, and secure in the arms of our Good Shepherd.
Want to know more about listening to God’s voice? Text “God’s voice” to 410-936-4252.
JG