Christians v. Sheep
Why does the Bible refer to us as sheep? Well there must be a divine reason. The Bible mentions sheep well over 500 times, more than any other animal. In efforts to understand clearly some of the reasons I decided to do a quick research on sheep and the similarities between us as believers and sheep. The results are quite frankly astounding.
My favorite verse is John 10:27
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.
Come with me, as we dive into the study of a docile and fearful animal. Sheep, they are best known for their strong flocking (herding) and following instinct. They will run from what frightens them and band together in large groups for protection. How many times in your walk with Christ you become afraid of the places he is taking you?
When one sheep moves, the rest will follow, even if it’s not a good idea. Lambs are taught from birth to follow the older members of the flock. The dominant members of the flock usually lead.
Sheep are very social animals, in a grazing situation they need to see other sheep. Ensuring that sheep always have visual contact with other sheep will prevent excess stress when moving or handling them. A group of 5 sheep is usually necessary for sheep to display their normal flocking behavior.
Sheep Senses:
Sight
- Poor depth perception
- Difficulty picking out small details
- They are reluctant to go where they can’t see
Hearing
- Frightened by sudden loud noises or other unnatural sounds, they become nervous and more difficult to handle. This is due to the release of stress-related hormones
- To minimize stress the handler should speak in a quiet and calm voice. Much like our father in heaven he speaks to us in a still small voice so that we do not become fearful. It’s no surprise that when ordinary people in the Bible encountered God or the Angel of the Lord, one of the first statements he says is “fear not” or “do not be afraid.”
Other Traits:
A sheep or lamb that is isolated from the rest of the flock is likely showing signs of illness (unless it is lost). It’s not a good sign when we neglect the importance of going to church, getting together with other believers (members of the church) so we can be recharged. The dominant or stronger Christians can helps us lambs (young Christians) put on the whole armor of God. It’s the plan of the enemy to isolate us from the Lord and from the Church, this is one of his tactics to attack you. Resist the temptation to be alone (something I must remind myself).
Hebrews 10:25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
Appetite is another strong indicator of health. Healthy sheep display normal eating and cud-chewing behavior. A healthy Christian has an appetite for the Lord and His Word.
- Lack of appetite is probable the most common symptom exhibited by a sick sheep. If you do not have an appetite for the Word of God (your daily bread), you are spiritually ill. The main channel that the Lord uses to communicate with us is through his Word. In order to know if the Lord is talking to you you must test the spirit, does it align with the word of God? If it contradicts the Word of God then it can’t be from God.
Isaiah 55:11 so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.
As I was doing this study on sheep, I realized how patient and gracious God is. His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:23). I mess up everyday, but everyday I am getting stronger in Christ. I will never be perfect as long as I am living in this body but I know his grace covers me.
