Our December message series is called “The Child Who Changed the World Forever.” We’re talking about Jesus whose words, life and ministry altered this planet forever. Many down through the centuries have chosen to follow Jesus and have been blessed. Yet others, have chosen to follow leaders other than Jesus with their lives and have ended up in disaster.
Everyone on earth can be placed in one of two groups, those who follow Jesus and those who don’t. Those who don’t follow Jesus tend to persecute those who do to one degree or another. So this world is a dangerous place for a believer. There is evil all around us and we need God’s protection and security to keep us safe.
Today, my message is entitled “Jesus Our Security.” There is a place in life that is safe, there is a place that is secure and that’s close to Jesus.
John 10:11a (NIV) “I am the good shepherd.
In the Bible, believers are often depicted as sheep following the Lord as their shepherd. A good shepherd keeps his sheep safe and secure. The 23rd Psalm speaks of the Lord as the believer’s shepherd.
Psalm 23:4 (NIV) Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
This verse acknowledges that at times, we may have to face evil or even death. Yet, the shepherd is with us. His rod is used to defend His sheep against wolves or thieves. His staff is used to guide or rescue sheep who have wandered astray. So today, we’re going to look at how Jesus, the good shepherd, can bring security and safety to our lives. As sheep, we have to understand and do certain things in order to be protected by our shepherd.
This morning, as we talk more about Jesus teaching on being the good shepherd, remember that if you’re a believer, you’re Jesus’ sheep. If you’re not yet a believer, you can become one As Jesus’ sheep, where are you with respect to your shepherd? Are you following closely to Him? Or have you begun to wander and try to find your own way. Are you safe and secure in your shepherd’s care? Or can you sense the howl of wolves or the footsteps of the thief following you? This Christmas season, Jesus wants you to find security for yourself and your family with the good shepherd.