Jesus: A Three-Fold Shepherd
Good Shepherd (past)
As the Good Shepherd, Jesus gave His life for the sheep. We look back to the cross where we see Jesus, as a shepherd, dying upon the cross for us. His death and resurrection were necessary for our redemption. It is through His precious blood that our sins may be forgiven.
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. John 10:11
Great Shepherd (present)
As the Great Shepherd, Jesus works now in our lives to do good works, so that our lives are lived according to the will of God in a way that is pleasing to HIm.
Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. Hebrews 13:20-21
Chief Shepherd (future)
As the Chief Shepherd, Jesus will give a crown of glory as a reward for a life lived for Him. May we live our lives in view of the future when Christ will return to reign.
when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away. 1 Peter 5:4
