THE GREAT SHEPHERD #12 A Shepherd that will Appear

Presently, the "chief Shepherd" is not seen. But it will not always be this way. The Father has appointed a day when the King of kings will be unveiled. How graphically Paul speaks of the event. "Keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: which in his times he shall show, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honor and power everlasting. Amen" (1 Tim 6:14-16). When the "chief Shepherd" appears, He will reward those that have taken an active interest in His flock. Being mindful of the people of God is time well spent!

CONCLUSION

It is always pleasant and profitable to consider the Lord Jesus Christ and His distinctiveness is seen in all of His ministries. No other professed savior is so mindful of his flock. The Jones' and Koresh's exploited their flocks, and finally took their lives. The lord Jesus feeds His flock, and gives them life more abundant. He is the "good Shepherd." False shepherds lord it over their flocks, excerising ruthless dominion over them. The Lord Jesus rules to protect the flock, and bring them into the safe haven of glory. He is a "great Shepherd." Pretentious leaders usurp divine authority, requiring that men give them the honor that is due the Lord. Our Savior leads in a manner consistent with His love and grace. For those that follow Him, and for those that remember Him in the role of leaders, Christ proves to be the true "chief Shepherd." If you have been crushed by the inconsideration of men--look to Jesus! If you have been led astray, brought to wrong conclusions, and deprived of spiritual nourishment--look to Jesus! If you have been trapped by life, lost your way, or are sensitive about your own helplessness--look to Jesus! He is the "good," "great," and "chief Shepherd." You will NOT be disappointed! As it is written, "See, I am laying in Zion a stone that will make people stumble, a rock that will make them fall, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame" (Rom 9:33; NRSV). Take full advantage of the gracious Shepherd that is given to us.

-- TOMORROW: NEW SERIES--ACCEPTED IN THE BELOVED --