Shepherd
A shepherd is one who tends, protects, and guides sheep. In Scripture, the image is used especially for God, for Christ as the Good Shepherd, and for human leaders who are called to care faithfully for God’s people.
At a Glance
A shepherd is one who tends, protects, and guides sheep. In Scripture, the image is used especially for God, for Christ as the Good Shepherd, and for human leaders who are called to care faithfully for God’s people.
Description
In the Bible, a shepherd is first a literal keeper of sheep, but the term also becomes an important theological picture of care, guidance, provision, and protection. The Old Testament frequently speaks of the Lord as the Shepherd of his people, emphasizing his faithful leadership and tender care. The New Testament brings this imagery to its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the Good Shepherd and the Chief Shepherd, giving his life for the sheep and gathering, leading, and guarding them. Scripture also applies shepherd language to human leaders among God’s people, especially those responsible to teach, oversee, and care for the church. Because of this broad biblical use, the term can refer either to the literal occupation or, theologically, to God’s care, Christ’s pastoral kingship, and the calling of spiritual leaders to serve God’s flock faithfully.