(Alan is recovering from surgery this week, so our webmaster Jeff Cox is filling in during his absence.)
Introduction. Most people in our modern, high tech society have little exposure to caring for farm animals. Having pets is not nearly the same as caring for cattle, pigs, goats, or sheep on a continual basis. Because we are somewhat disconnected from such a lifestyle, we may not really understand Biblical teachings that are based on rural experiences with tending livestock.
Sheep and Shepherds. There are a number of literal and figurative references throughout the Bible to raising sheep. A number of prominent Bible characters were shepherds, including Abel (Gen. 4:2), Abram (Gen. 12:16), and David (Gen. 16:11; 17:15, 34-35). The same can be said for "spiritual" shepherds, including God (Psm. 74:1; 79:13; 95:7), Jesus (Eze. 34:5-23; Matt. 2:6; Heb. 13:20), the Apostles (John 21:16-17), and elders (Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:2). But do we understand and appreciate the role of an ancient shepherd and what it meant to the sheep under his care?
Introduction. Most people in our modern, high tech society have little exposure to caring for farm animals. Having pets is not nearly the same as caring for cattle, pigs, goats, or sheep on a continual basis. Because we are somewhat disconnected from such a lifestyle, we may not really understand Biblical teachings that are based on rural experiences with tending livestock.
Sheep and Shepherds. There are a number of literal and figurative references throughout the Bible to raising sheep. A number of prominent Bible characters were shepherds, including Abel (Gen. 4:2), Abram (Gen. 12:16), and David (Gen. 16:11; 17:15, 34-35). The same can be said for "spiritual" shepherds, including God (Psm. 74:1; 79:13; 95:7), Jesus (Eze. 34:5-23; Matt. 2:6; Heb. 13:20), the Apostles (John 21:16-17), and elders (Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:2). But do we understand and appreciate the role of an ancient shepherd and what it meant to the sheep under his care?