Why Christians Called Sheep | what does the bible say about sheep?

Why Christians Called Sheep 

In Christian theology, the term "sheep" is often used metaphorically to refer to believers or followers of Jesus Christ. This metaphor is derived from biblical references, particularly in the New Testament.

In the Bible, Jesus is often referred to as the "Good Shepherd" who cares for and guides his flock, which represents his followers. In John 10:11, Jesus says, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." This imagery portrays Jesus as a loving and sacrificial leader who protects and guides his followers.

The term "sheep" is used to emphasize the relationship between Jesus and his followers. It highlights the trust and dependence that believers have in Jesus, much like how sheep rely on their shepherd for guidance and protection. Christians are encouraged to be obedient and follow Jesus' teachings, just as sheep follow their shepherd.

The metaphor of sheep also highlights the vulnerability and humility that believers should embrace. Sheep are known for their meek and gentle nature, and in the Christian context, this signifies humility and willingness to submit to God's will.

Overall, calling Christians "sheep" is a metaphorical way of emphasizing their relationship with Jesus as their shepherd and underscoring the qualities of trust, dependence, obedience, vulnerability, and humility that are expected of believers in the Christian faith.

what does the bible say about sheep?

The Bible contains numerous references to sheep, both in the Old Testament and the New Testament. Here are some key passages that mention sheep and provide insights into their significance:

Psalm 23:1-2: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters." This well-known Psalm portrays God as a shepherd who provides for and guides His people, likening them to sheep.

Psalm 100:3: "Know that the Lord, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture." Here, the imagery of sheep is used to emphasize that humanity belongs to God and is under His care.

Isaiah 53:6: "All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, every one, to his own way; And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all." This verse depicts humanity's tendency to go astray from God's path, highlighting the need for a savior. It also foreshadows Jesus as the sacrificial lamb who takes upon Himself the sins of humanity.

Matthew 9:36: "But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd." This verse describes Jesus' compassion for people who were lost and in need of guidance, comparing them to sheep without a shepherd.

John 10:11: "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep." In this verse, Jesus refers to Himself as the "good shepherd" who willingly sacrifices Himself for the well-being and salvation of His followers.

John 10:27: "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me." Here, Jesus emphasizes the intimate relationship between Himself and His followers, symbolizing the trust and obedience expected of believers.

These passages and others highlight the metaphorical significance of sheep in the Bible, representing God's care, guidance, and provision for His people, as well as the qualities of trust, dependence, and obedience that believers are encouraged to embody.