Good shepherd Jesus, our good shepherd, treats us in the same way. We love Jesus, and want to live his way, but we all let him down sometimes. Maybe by losing our temper... or lying... or answering back. That doesn’t mean we’re not Christians. And it certainly doesn’t mean that he’ll kick us out of his flock! Fill in the gaps in Jesus’ words from verse 14: I k___________ my sheep and t__________ know m____.’
Jesus, our good shepherd, knows us inside out. He knows the things we love to do, and the things that scare us. He knows all about our friends and family. He knows what excites us. And he also knows how we feel when we mess up, and let him down.
As you follow Jesus, your good shepherd, you will become more and more like him. And that will help you to be sure that you really are one of his sheep! So... lots of sheep, a great gate, and a loving, good shepherd. It’s a lot to think about, isn’t it? Why not talk to God about some of this now? You can use your own words—God loves to listen to his sheep!—or maybe use the prayer below. And if you’re still not sure if you’re a Christian, ask God to show you whether you are or not. Then talk to an older Christian about it. They’ll want to help you.
h ow how do I know I’m a Christian
Dear God, Thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, to be my gate so that I can come in and be friends with you. Thank you that Jesus died for me as my good shepherd. Please change me on the inside to make me more like Jesus. And please help me to keep following Jesus, and living his way, every day. Amen
Spot the difference When you become a Christian, God begins to change you to make you more like his Son, Jesus. One way you will know you’re a Christian—other people will see it too—is when God changes you on the inside. It might take a while, but you will begin to notice some of those changes. • You will want to do what God wants, rather than just doing what you want. • God will help you to love other people more, and to care what happens to them. • You will want to pray more, telling God about each day, and asking him to help your friends and family. • You’ll also want to meet with other Christians, and to read God’s book, the Bible, so that you can get to know him better and better.
© The Good Book Company 2006 www.thegoodbook.co.uk All Bible references taken from the Good News Bible
Not sure if you’re a Christian? Then check out what Jesus said to his followers. It’s all about sheep...