How can we discern Jesus' voice as the true shepherd in our lives? Setting the Scene: Understanding John 10:6 “Jesus spoke this figure of speech to them, but they did not understand what He was telling them.” (John 10:6) • The crowd had just heard Jesus describe Himself as the Door and the Shepherd (vv. 1-5). • Their confusion highlights the danger of missing His voice even when He speaks plainly. Our goal is to do the opposite—recognize, receive, and follow. The Hallmarks of the Shepherd’s Voice • Consistent with written Scripture • John 10:35 – “Scripture cannot be broken.” • 2 Timothy 3:16 – “All Scripture is God-breathed.” • Christ-centered and glory-giving to God • John 16:14 – “He will glorify Me.” • Marked by truth and purity • Hebrews 4:12 – “Sharper than any double-edged sword.” • Producing inner peace, not confusion • Colossians 3:15 – “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” Practical Ways to Discern His Voice 1. Daily Scripture Intake • Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet.” • Read aloud; the shepherd’s tone grows familiar through repetition. 2. Prayerful Listening • John 10:27 – “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” • Pause after prayer; allow space for the Spirit’s promptings (John 14:26). 3. Spirit-Led Testing • 1 John 4:1 – “Test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” • Ask: Does this align with Scripture? Does it exalt Christ? 4. Obedient Response • James 1:22 – “Be doers of the word.” • Obedience sharpens hearing; disobedience dulls it (Mark 4:24-25). 5. Fellowship and Counsel • Proverbs 11:14 – “In an abundance of counselors there is safety.” • Mature believers help confirm the Shepherd’s direction. Common Imposters and How to Avoid Them • The Stranger’s Voice (John 10:5) • Anything that contradicts Scripture or diminishes Christ. • The Thief’s Voice (John 10:10) • Promising gain through compromise, producing loss in the end. • Self-Deception • Jeremiah 17:9 – “The heart is deceitful.” • Regular confession and accountability keep motives clear. Fruit That Confirms We Heard Correctly • Growing love for Christ and others (John 13:35). • Increasing holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16). • Perseverance in trials with joy (John 16:33). • Peace that withstands circumstances (Philippians 4:7). When His Voice Seems Silent • Return to the last clear instruction and obey it. • Wait expectantly—sheep do not force the shepherd’s timetable (Psalm 27:14). • Stay in the flock; isolation amplifies confusion (Hebrews 10:24-25). Encouragement for Everyday Life Jesus still speaks, and His sheep still recognize Him. Stay near the Scriptures, lean into prayerful listening, walk in obedience, test everything by the Word, and enjoy the steady, trustworthy guidance of the true Shepherd. |
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