The Claims of Christ

07/08/22 – 07/16/22

I Am the Good Shepherd

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/10/22

Many Americans will never forget the newscast from Washington, D.C., after an Air Florida plane crashed into the Potomac River in 1982. Millions heard the reports of a courageous young man saving others as he lost his own life.

Each time the helicopter sent the lifeline his way, he would pass it to someone else. No doubt he knew he could not hold on any longer as he passed the line to the last person. This man’s death, as a result of rescuing others instead of saving himself, was heroic—the result of a tragic accident.

Jesus’ sacrifice for others was no accident. He said, “I lay down my life for the sheep” (John 10:15). He came from heaven so He could die for His sheep—every person who calls upon His name.

It was not by chance that Jesus came to earth, took on human form, and gave His life so we might be saved. He says:

No one takes [my life] from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. (John 10:18).

Give thanks today for Jesus’ perfect sacrifice through which the children of God are rescued from sin and death and given eternal life.

Prayer: Father, thank You for sacrificing Your Son, Jesus Christ, so I might live eternally with You. Help me to share Your Truth with others. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away” (1 Peter 5:4).