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A Shepherd’s Heart Part 1

By George Stahnke

When considering a topic of this nature, I realize that volumes have been written over the centuries by noted theologians. My desire is to simplify those many volumes into a concise, yet theologically correct, article.

The greatest example of a shepherd’s heart is found in the person of our Lord Jesus Christ. There are two key verses that describe that heart, “I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” “I am the good shepherd, and I know My own and My own know Me.”1 These verses speak of devotion, self-sacrifice, and a close personal relationship between the one who shepherds and those under his care.

Because of God’s love for his people he has promised to provide “shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.”2 These are not simply “men for hire” who work for a paycheck and then abandon the sheep when trouble comes knocking.3 Ministers who have a “Shepherd’s Heart” are compassionate, self-disciplined, bold, and relentless in defending the flock and biblical truth. They do not shrink back for fear of reprisal and are not afraid of self-sacrifice. Though not perfect, they are heroes of the faith.

– George

1 John 10:11, 14
2 Jeremiah 3:15
3 John 10:11-14

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