How does John 21:16 demonstrate Jesus' call to "tend My sheep" today? Setting the Scene • After the resurrection, Jesus meets His disciples by the Sea of Galilee. • Peter, who denied the Lord three times, is being lovingly restored. • The conversation centers on love expressed through service. The Command in Focus: John 21:16 “Again Jesus asked, ‘Simon son of John, do you love Me?’ ‘Yes, Lord,’ he answered, ‘You know I love You.’ Jesus told him, ‘Tend My sheep.’” What “Tend” Means • Greek poimainō: to shepherd, care for, guide, protect, nurture. • Not a single task but an ongoing lifestyle of oversight. • Embraces both feeding (sound doctrine) and guarding (protection from harm). Scripture echoes: – Acts 20:28 “Keep watch over yourselves and the whole flock… shepherd the church of God.” – 1 Peter 5:2-3 “Be shepherds of God’s flock under your care… eager to serve.” Sheep—Who They Are Today • All believers, new and mature alike (Hebrews 13:20-21). • Those yet to trust Christ, drawn by His voice (John 10:16). • Especially the vulnerable, weak, or wandering (Matthew 9:36). Practical Ways to Obey the Call Now Spiritual nourishment • Teach the whole counsel of God (2 Timothy 4:2). • Model daily Scripture intake and prayer. Protection and guidance • Guard against false teaching (Titus 1:9). • Offer correction with gentleness (Galatians 6:1). Care for needs • Visit, encourage, and support (James 1:27). • Foster fellowship where each member is known (Acts 2:46-47). Equipping others • Train faithful believers to serve (Ephesians 4:11-13). • Delegate responsibility, multiplying shepherds (2 Timothy 2:2). Why This Matters: Eternal Stakes • Jesus bought the flock with His own blood (Revelation 5:9). • Faithful shepherding preserves truth for the next generation (Psalm 78:5-7). • Reward promised: “When the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.” (1 Peter 5:4) Encouragement for Today’s Shepherds • The call rests on love for Christ, not personal merit. • The Good Shepherd remains present, empowering by His Spirit (John 14:16-18). • Even past failures, like Peter’s, cannot nullify the commission—grace restores and sends anew. |
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