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Sheep Rustling
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeIn days gone by, sheep were a common symbol of wealth, raised for wool, meat, or trade, ensuring financial security and community status as flocks grew. Sheep were a valued resource, yielding great dividends with minimal expense beyond time and energy. Today, while physical shepherds are rare, spiritual shepherds lead large flocks in mega-churches, often becoming symbols of affluence. However, some prioritize large followings over the health of their sheep, luring them with promises of grandeur and protection rather than providing good food, clean water, peace, and safety. God's emphasis remains on the spiritual health of His sheep, not their quantity, as He calls only a certain number during this time of judgment. All sheep belong to the Chief Shepherd, and those who hear His voice follow Him to the human shepherd He deems best for their needs. For a shepherd to lure away sheep not given to them is akin to sheep rustling, a grave offense. Abraham, a great patriarch, exemplified trust in God's sovereignty by not enticing his nephew Lot's sheep to join his flocks, even deferring land choice for peace, believing that God would supply every need without the need for more sheep or better land.
Parable of the Good Shepherd (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus Christ is portrayed as the Good Shepherd who enters by the gate, the lawful way into the sheep pen, distinguishing Himself from false messiahs who seek to steal sheep through deceit or control. As the legitimate Heir of the chosen seed, He fulfills Old Testament promises, gathering the scattered children of God into one flock. His sovereignty as the Shepherd emphasizes His role as the great and benevolent Ruler and Owner of all His sheep. As the Good Shepherd, He died for sinners who, like sheep, have gone astray, manifesting perfect goodness with a morally beautiful, noble, and true nature. He guides, supports, and sacrifices Himself for His sheep, exceeding all others in benevolence. As the Great Shepherd, He sacrificed Himself, rose from the grave, and ascended to heaven, where He now intercedes for His sheep, united with the Father in Their love for them, seeking and saving those who were lost. As the Ruling Shepherd, He will return to reward faithful under-shepherds, combining the qualities of shepherd, parent, and ruler in His authority, promising the kingdom to His little flock. A good shepherd must own his sheep, as seen when each shepherd separates his flock from others in a shared pen by a unique call, leading them to beneficial pastures and protecting them from danger. Jesus refers to His sheep personally as His own, emphasizing their familiarity and the mark of ownership through unconditional obedience and submission, reflecting His role as the Creator through whom all things were made.
Parable of the Lost Sheep
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingChrist shows His compassion and concern for those who have become distracted and fallen into error, providing an example to us to show mercy to others.
The Shepherd's Guidance (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeWhen our lives change, we do not have to fear that things are out of control. As the Good Shepherd, Christ changes our circumstances for our benefit.
The Shepherd's Voice
Article by Mike FordGod's people are often compared to sheep, yet some question whether they need a human shepherd. How does one know whether a minister is a true shepherd?
Knowing a True Shepherd
Sermonette by Mike FordWe are cautioned to test the spirits contained in what a shepherd says to see whether they come from God. The world is not able to understand this message.
Psalm 23:3
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamCasting takes place when a sheep falls over and its weight causes it to get stuck on its back until the shepherd intervenes.
Psalm 23:2
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamThe shepherd has a critical role in providing conditions for sheep to rest, including freedom from fear, pests, hunger, and social friction within the flock.
Psalm 23
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamBoth David and his descendant, Jesus Christ, demonstrated their dedication in protecting the sheep, even at great personal risk, unlike hirelings, then and now.
Psalm 23:5-6
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamBy accepting the guidance of the Shepherd, we are taught to avoid the cup of wrath and have the cup of blessings overflow in that pasture.
John (Part Sixteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe closer we get to God, the more likely we will have persecution, but also the greater and more real He becomes and the more likely we will serve Him correctly.
Psalm 23 (Part One)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughOf all animals, sheep need the most care and are extremely vulnerable to predators, pests, and fear, leading to extremely dependent and trusting behavior.
In Search of a Clear World View (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The modern nations of Israel, by turning its back on the truth, has blown its opportunity for moral leadership every bit as much as ancient Judah did.
Psalm 23:4
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamA major heresy is that God is completely about love and no correction. However, the rod of correction is an essential part of being guided safely.
Psalms: Book One (Part Six)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughPsalm 23 depicts the gratitude we should display from a sheep's point of view, as the animal boasts of blessings and marvels about the care of his Shepherd.
Leadership and Covenants (Part Two)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughWe must learn the lessons of godly leadership now because our positions in the Kingdom will require their use. Society demonstrates a lack of personal leadership.
Goats
Sermonette by Mike FordGoats are intelligent, sensitive, playful, and quick to respond to attention, but they are also capricious, impulsive, devious, and contrary.
Psalm 23 (Part Three)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe valley-of-shadow imagery symbolizes the fears, trials, and tests needed to produce character, quality fruit, and an intimate trust in the shepherd.
Psalm 23 (Part Two)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughSheep are the most dependent on their owner for their well-being. From the viewpoint of the sheep, the quality of care of the shepherd is of utmost importance.
For the Perfecting of the Saints
Booklet by John W. RitenbaughDo Christians need a church? With all the church problems in recent years, many have withdrawn. Yet the church—problems and all—serves a God-ordained role.
Focus
Sermon by John O. ReidThough Christ has warned us to be aware of the times, we need to be more alert to how we are living. End-time events should lead us to repentance.