THE LORD’S SHEEP | Part 3
The Bible frequently uses the term “sheep” to describe those who belong to the Lord—a group that encompasses both the people of Israel and Christians. Reflecting on this term opens a vast subject—much like many other biblical themes—that takes significant time to explore. Two ways to approach this topic exist: the exegetical method, which studies specific verses, and the topical method, which examines all aspects related to the term “sheep.” We will employ both approaches, hoping to help you uncover profound meanings relevant to the Christian faith as you walk with the Lord.
Previously, we referenced two biblical passages concerning this subject: John 10:27–28 and Psalm 23:1. We will continue our study using these passages.JOHN 10:27–28 – “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.”In verse 27, the Lord mentions one defining characteristic of the sheep that belong to Him: they “hear My voice.” Many Christians assume that simply by praying to accept the Lord and joining a local church, they have automatically become the Lord’s sheep. However, in verse 27, Jesus identifies three key elements that enable a Christian to truly become one of His sheep. The first element is that only those who hear the Lord’s voice are truly His sheep.
In this context, hearing the Lord’s voice does not mean simply listening to a sermon on a Sunday. Remember that while sermons can help a Christian hear the voice of the Lord, they are not the voice of the Lord Himself; these are two entirely different things. A sermon that presents biblical truth and aligns with the Lord’s will can assist a Christian in hearing His voice (Romans 10:17; 1 Corinthians 1:17; 2 Corinthians 4:5; Colossians 1:28; Titus 1:1; 1 Peter 2:9). Conversely, a sermon delivered merely to please the audience, provide entertainment, exalt an individual, or showcase personal knowledge cannot help a Christian hear the voice of the Lord (2 Timothy 4:3–4).
Therefore, Christians must be discerning about what we listen to—not only to avoid wasting time but, more importantly, to ensure we hear the voice of the Lord. Christians need to be able to distinguish between these different types of preaching (Acts 17:11). Let us examine the aforementioned scriptural references to understand what the Word of God teaches about listening to sermons, so that we may, in turn, truly hear the voice of the Lord.
2 TIMOTHY 4:3–4 – For a time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine; instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.
According to this scriptural passage, the GOOD MESSAGE of the Lord is not necessarily “pleasant to the ears” of the listener. This means preaching the Truth of God may make the listener’s heart feel uncomfortable, convicted, or even pained (Hebrews 4:12). Such reactions occur because the Holy Spirit is at work within the listener—not because the preacher is aggressive, hostile, or harsh.
Jesus taught the Truths of God’s will with gentleness (Isaiah 42:2; John 12:49), yet the crowds—and even some of His own disciples—could not endure these truthful words (Matthew 19:22; Luke 19:47; John 6:60, 66). The Lord’s manner of teaching should serve as the model for those who serve Him in the Church—a requirement that is widely known and understood.
However, the Bible also warns that in this present age, people tend to seek out words that are pleasing and agreeable to their own ears; they prefer sermons filled with jokes, humor, or even fabricated tales and baseless rumors—anything, so long as it is entertaining. The Lord’s true sheep do not listen to such preaching.
(to be continued)