Life Group Resources: I Am The Good Shepherd

Life Group Guide: "I Am The Good Shepherd"

Opening Prayer: Begin with a brief prayer, asking God to guide your discussion and help you apply the teachings of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, to your lives.

Key Takeaways:
Jesus identifies himself as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing His divine identity and relationship with His followers.
The central message of Psalm 23 is that God is always with us, in both good times and challenging times.
There are many "false shepherds" and "hired hands" in our world competing for our loyalty and attention.
Jesus warns us to be cautious of leaders who are self-serving rather than genuinely caring for others.
As the Good Shepherd, Jesus promises to always be with us, guide us, and even lay down His life for us.

Discussion Questions:
What does the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd mean to you personally? How does it impact your understanding of your relationship with Him?

Reflect on the phrase "thou art with me" from Psalm 23. How does the idea of God's constant presence comfort or challenge you in your daily life?

The sermon mentions various "false shepherds" and "hired hands" in our world today. Can you identify some examples in current society? How can we discern between true and false leaders?

How do you think Jesus' warning about false shepherds applies to our modern context? In what areas of life do you see this as particularly relevant?

The sermon emphasizes the importance of centering our lives on Jesus' voice amidst competing messages. What practical steps can we take to focus on Jesus' teachings in our noisy world?

How does the concept of belonging to "one fold" or the body of Christ challenge our tendencies toward division or exclusion?

Practical Applications:
This week, spend time meditating on Psalm 23. Consider memorizing it if you haven't already, or reflect deeply on a verse each day.

Identify one area in your life where you may be following a "false shepherd." Commit to re-evaluating that influence and seeking God's guidance instead.

Practice discernment by examining the motivations of leaders or influential voices in your life. Are they self-serving or genuinely caring for others?

Look for opportunities to be a "good shepherd" to others in your community, showing care and compassion as Jesus would.

Create a plan to reduce "noise" in your life and intentionally listen for Jesus' voice through prayer, scripture reading, or quiet reflection.

Closing Prayer: Close the session by thanking God for being our Good Shepherd and asking for His guidance in following Him more closely in the coming week.

5 Day Bible Devotional
Day 1: The Good Shepherd's Love Reading: John 10:11-18 Devotional: Jesus declares, "I am the good shepherd." This powerful statement reveals the depth of God's love for us. Unlike hired hands who flee at the first sign of danger, Jesus willingly lays down His life for His sheep. Today, reflect on the sacrificial nature of Christ's love. How does knowing you are cherished by the Good Shepherd impact your sense of worth and security? Consider ways you can demonstrate this selfless love to others in your life, even when it's challenging. Remember, you are never alone - the Good Shepherd is always with you, guiding and protecting you through life's journey.

Day 2: Recognizing God's Voice Reading: John 10:1-10 Devotional: In a world full of competing voices and false shepherds, Jesus emphasizes the importance of recognizing His voice. As His sheep, we are called to discern His guidance amidst the noise of our daily lives. Take time today to quiet your mind and listen for God's voice. What distractions or "false shepherds" might be drowning out His direction in your life? Practice being still and attentive to His presence. Ask God to sharpen your spiritual hearing, so you can follow His lead with confidence and avoid the pitfalls of misguided influences.

Day 3: The Lord is My Shepherd Reading: Psalm 23 Devotional: This beloved psalm paints a vivid picture of God's tender care and constant presence. Meditate on the phrase "thou art with me" - the centerpiece of this passage. How does the assurance of God's companionship transform your perspective on life's challenges? Whether you find yourself in green pastures or dark valleys, remember that the Shepherd is always by your side. Today, identify an area of your life where you need to trust God's guidance more fully. Surrender that concern to Him, and rest in the comfort of His rod and staff.

Day 4: One Flock, One Shepherd Reading: John 10:14-16, Ephesians 2:11-22 Devotional: Jesus speaks of bringing together sheep from different folds into one flock under His care. This powerful image reminds us of God's desire for unity among His people. In a world often divided by differences, how can you embody Christ's inclusive love? Reflect on any prejudices or biases you may hold, and ask God to broaden your perspective. Consider reaching out to someone from a different background or belief system, seeking to understand and love them as Christ does. Pray for the Church to be a reflection of God's diverse yet unified flock.

Day 5: The Shepherd's Pursuit Reading: Luke 15:1-7 Devotional: The parable of the lost sheep beautifully illustrates God's relentless pursuit of those who have strayed. No matter how far we wander, the Good Shepherd seeks us out. Have you experienced God's pursuit in your own life? Take time to recall moments when you felt distant from God, yet He drew you back. If you're feeling lost or disconnected now, know that the Shepherd is actively searching for you. Today, consider how you might partner with God in His mission to seek and save the lost. Who in your life needs to experience the Shepherd's love and grace through you?