The image of the shepherd is one of the most enduring and profound metaphors in Scripture. Shepherding is used to describe God’s relationship with His people, the ministry of Jesus Christ, and the responsibilities of spiritual leaders. From the Old Testament patriarchs to Jesus’ declaration as the “Good Shepherd,” this theme reveals God’s care, guidance, and protection over His flock.

This study will explore the role of shepherds in Scripture, their connection to Jesus as the Good Shepherd, and the rich symbolism of shepherding in the life of believers.

Old Testament Shepherds: Foreshadows of the Good Shepherd

Abel: The First Shepherd

The first shepherd in Scripture is Abel, who offered a pleasing sacrifice to God from his flock (Genesis 4:2–4). Abel’s role as a shepherd symbolizes dedication to God, and his offering foreshadows Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice as the Lamb of God.

Abraham: A Wealthy Shepherd

Abraham, the father of faith, was also a shepherd, tending flocks as he journeyed through the land of promise. His life exemplifies obedience to God’s call and trust in His provision (Genesis 13:5–6).

Moses: The Shepherd of Deliverance

Before leading Israel out of Egypt, Moses spent 40 years shepherding sheep in the wilderness of Midian (Exodus 3:1). This period prepared him to shepherd God’s people through the desert, relying on God for guidance and provision.

David: The Shepherd King

David’s early life as a shepherd shaped his heart for leadership. He protected his flock from predators like lions and bears, a picture of God’s protective care over His people (1 Samuel 17:34–36). David’s psalm, “The LORD is my shepherd” (Psalm 23:1), reflects his understanding of God as the ultimate Shepherd.

Jesus as the Good Shepherd

The Declaration of the Good Shepherd

In John 10:11, Jesus declares, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.” This statement reveals the sacrificial nature of Jesus’ ministry. Unlike hirelings who abandon the flock in danger, Jesus lays down His life to save His sheep (John 10:14–15).

Jesus Knows His Sheep

Jesus emphasizes His intimate relationship with His sheep: “I know My sheep, and am known by My own” (John 10:14). This speaks of the deep, personal connection between Christ and His followers, reflecting the shepherd’s care for each individual sheep.

Sheep of Another Fold

In John 10:16, Jesus says, “And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd.” This refers to the inclusion of Gentiles in God’s plan of salvation, uniting Jews and Gentiles under Christ’s care.

The Shepherd’s Role: Protection and Provision

Protection from Wolves

A shepherd’s primary responsibility is to protect the sheep from predators. Jesus warns about wolves in sheep’s clothing, representing false teachers who seek to deceive and harm the flock (Matthew 7:15). Paul echoes this warning in Acts 20:29, saying, “For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock.”

The Staff and Rod

Psalm 23:4 mentions the shepherd’s rod and staff as symbols of comfort and protection. The rod defends the sheep against threats, while the staff guides and rescues them from danger. These tools illustrate God’s discipline and guidance in the believer’s life.

Provision of Anointing

Shepherds would anoint their sheep with oil to protect them from parasites and heal their wounds. This practice is a vivid picture of the Holy Spirit’s work in believers’ lives, bringing healing, protection, and empowerment. “You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over” (Psalm 23:5) reflects God’s abundant care.

The Sheep and the Goats: A Future Separation

In Matthew 25:31–46, Jesus describes the final judgment as a separation of sheep and goats. The sheep represent believers who follow the Good Shepherd, demonstrating their faith through acts of love and service. The goats symbolize those who reject Christ, living for themselves rather than for God’s kingdom.

The key takeaway is that the sheep hear and obey the Shepherd’s voice, while the goats live independently of His guidance. This passage challenges believers to reflect on their relationship with Christ and their obedience to His commands.

The Lost Sheep: The Pursuit of the One

In Luke 15:3–7, Jesus tells the parable of the lost sheep. A shepherd leaves the 99 sheep in the open field to search for the one that is lost. When he finds it, he rejoices and carries it home. This parable illustrates the depth of Jesus’ love and His relentless pursuit of sinners.

It’s important to note that the Shepherd does not abandon the 99 sheep; rather, He ensures their safety while seeking the one that is lost. This shows Jesus’ heart for both the individual and the collective body of believers.

Sheep and Shepherd Symbolism: Believers and Their Shepherd

Believers as Sheep

The Bible frequently refers to believers as sheep, emphasizing their need for guidance, protection, and care. Sheep are vulnerable and prone to wander, which underscores humanity’s dependence on God. “All we like sheep have gone astray” (Isaiah 53:6) highlights the universal tendency to stray from God’s path. Without the care of a shepherd, sheep are defenseless against predators and unable to find nourishment or safety. This imagery beautifully captures our need for Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who provides for, protects, and guides His flock.

False Teachers as Wolves

False teachers, described as wolves in sheep’s clothing, pose a significant danger to the flock. These individuals disguise themselves as believers but seek to exploit and harm the people of God. Jesus warns, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves” (Matthew 7:15). Paul reiterates this warning in Acts 20:29–30, cautioning that wolves will arise even from within the church, speaking perverse things to draw disciples away from Christ.

The responsibility of recognizing and guarding against wolves falls to both the individual believer, who must be discerning, and spiritual leaders, who are called to protect the flock entrusted to them.

Pastors: Under-Shepherds of the Good Shepherd

When Jesus restored Peter after his denial, He gave him a direct commission: “Feed My lambs… Tend My sheep… Feed My sheep” (John 21:15–17). This command highlights the role of spiritual leaders as shepherds under Christ, tasked with teaching, guiding, and caring for the people of God. Peter later echoed this responsibility in his epistle:
“Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:2–3).

Pastors and spiritual leaders are called to assist Jesus, the ultimate Shepherd, in tending to His flock. They do not replace Christ but point the sheep to Him. Their authority comes from their submission to the Good Shepherd, and their primary task is to ensure that the flock is fed with the Word of God, protected from wolves, and nurtured in their spiritual growth.

Jesus: The Ultimate Shepherd

While pastors and leaders play a crucial role, Jesus remains the ultimate Shepherd of His people. He alone has the power to lay down His life for the sheep and the authority to take it up again (John 10:11, 17–18). He knows His sheep by name and leads them to abundant life (John 10:3, 10). Pastors may guide and feed the flock, but only Jesus can save, protect eternally, and provide for the deepest needs of His people.

This balance underscores the beautiful relationship between Christ, His under-shepherds, and His sheep. While pastors faithfully serve the flock, Jesus is the chief Shepherd, ensuring that His people are ultimately cared for and never abandoned (Hebrews 13:20).

The Ultimate Shepherd: Christ’s Eternal Reign

The imagery of the Shepherd culminates in Revelation, where Jesus is described as the Lamb who is also the Shepherd. “For the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to living fountains of waters” (Revelation 7:17). This dual role reflects Christ’s sacrifice as the Lamb of God and His ongoing care as the Shepherd of His people.

My Final Thoughts

The imagery of the Shepherd in Scripture is a powerful reminder of God’s love, care, and guidance. From the Old Testament shepherds like David and Moses to Jesus’ declaration as the Good Shepherd, this theme reveals God’s desire to lead His people into abundant life. The Shepherd protects His flock, anoints them with His Spirit, and calls them to follow His voice.

As we reflect on this study, may we strive to live as obedient sheep, trusting in the Good Shepherd’s care and joining Him in His mission to seek and save the lost.