Smart as the Sheep
Smart as the Sheep - John 10:1-10
People do not like it when they are compared to certain animals such as a monkey or pig. On the other hand, there are animals that are known to be symbols of power and strength like a lion or bull. So, people will see it as a compliment when they are compared to such animals. Now, we do not have the technology to know how animals would feel if they are compared to humans. I wonder if the crocodile would appreciate being compared to corrupt government officials.
The Gospel this week is also full of metaphors. Jesus described himself as the shepherd who looks after the well-being of the sheep. John was following the OT prophetic tradition wherein God is described as the shepherd who will rescue his distressed people (Psalm 23; Ezekiel 34:22–25).
Whenever this passage is read, people tend to focus on the qualities of the sheep. Generally, sheep are perceived to be weak creatures because of their simple and gentle nature. They are incapable of protecting themselves from vicious predators. They do not have big teeth, strong muscles, or horns, to defend themselves. Thus they cannot survive without someone looking after them. Some would stretch the meaning of the metaphor of the sheep to being stupid or dumb. In the parable of Jesus, however, the sheep has a keen sense of knowing who the real shepherd is. They recognize his voice and they follow him (v. 4). This is not an image of stupidity, rather, the sheep are actually characterized as smart creatures who know the voice of their true shepherd. They will not follow anyone else, and would even run away from strangers (v. 5).
On the other hand, we see the disciples who have been listening to Jesus and have witnessed his miracles but they still cannot understand what he was saying (v. 6). Apparently, the sheep are smarter than the people that Jesus was talking to.
Here’s the truth, according to Jesus, throughout the history of his people, they have fallen victim to many cruel, abusive, brutal, oppressive, and murderous shepherds who exploit the sheep by stealing from them and slaughtering them for personal and selfish gains. These are not the true shepherds, rather, they are the thieves and robbers who destroy the lives of many.
Jesus is the opposite of these false shepherds. Because unlike them, he offers fullness of life for the sheep (v. 10). He genuinely cares for the sheep, even willing to die for them to protect them against those who would threaten to exploit their vulnerabilities (v. 11).
Therefore, unless people become like the sheep who listen and follow the voice of the true shepherd, they will always fall victim to the savagery, violence, and bloodthirstiness of the demonic shepherds that they love to worship and follow.
Be smart like the sheep!
