How does John 10:13 illustrate the difference between a hireling and a shepherd? Reading the Verse John 10:13: “The man runs away because he is a hired servant and cares nothing for the sheep.” Two Contrasting Characters • Hireling (hired servant) – Works for wages alone – Has no real attachment to the flock – Sees danger, calculates the cost, and bolts – Result: sheep are scattered and vulnerable • Shepherd – Owns or is personally responsible for the sheep – Knows them, calls them by name (John 10:3) – Faces danger head-on, willing to lay down his life (John 10:11) – Result: sheep are protected, gathered, and at peace What Drives Each One Hireling motive: • Paycheck (compare Ezekiel 34:2–4—leaders who feed themselves, not the flock) • Self-preservation over sacrifice Shepherd motive: • Love and covenant responsibility (Psalm 23:1; Isaiah 40:11) • Sacrificial commitment—“lays down his life” (John 10:11) Behavior Under Pressure Hireling: • Runs “because he…cares nothing for the sheep.” • Proves true character when wolves appear (Acts 20:29). Shepherd: • Stays, fights, and protects (1 Samuel 17:34–35—David vs. lion and bear). • Gives life if necessary; the flock’s safety outranks his own. Why Motives Matter • Danger reveals motives; pressure separates genuine care from professional duty. • Spiritual leaders today are called to shepherd “not under compulsion…but eagerly” (1 Peter 5:2–3). • Christ sets the standard: He did not flee from the cross but embraced it for His sheep (Hebrews 12:2). Implications for Believers • Discern leadership: look for shepherd-like sacrifice, not hireling convenience. • Emulate the Shepherd in our own spheres—family, ministry, workplace. • Rest securely: Jesus, the Good Shepherd, will never abandon His flock (John 10:28–29). |
    |