A. Understanding the terms and Context of our theme:
In the context of our topic for the month, “Shepherd-Sheep Interface: The Platform for Divine Sufficiency,”
The term “INTERFACE” refers to the point of interaction or connection between Jesus Christ (the Shepherd) and His people (the sheep).
The term “PLATFORM” is an opportunity(ies), potential and means through which God accomplish His promises in the life of His children. The basis upon which God will do what He is set to do
‘’DIVINE SUFFICIENCY’’ refers to God’s continuous miraculous provision for all needs of His children- Psalm 23:1-2; II Cor 8:9
An interface refers to:
1. A point of interaction: A boundary or a point where two or more entities, or processes interact or communicate with each other.
In this sense, the meeting point of old life with the new life.
When the barrier was removed to allow for the sheep to begin a relationship with Christ, the shepherd. Isaiah 59:2; Exodus 26:33; Eph.2:11-13; Matthew 27:51:
The question you are to answer from this definition is ‘’do you have a point of interaction with Jesus?’’ when did your relationship with Him commenced? – Galatians 1:15-17; Acts 26:12-18
2. A point of connection or link: A means of connecting or linking two or more systems, entities, or processes, enabling them to exchange information, resources, or services. The connection the sheep has with the shepherd allows for exchange of information, enhances communication and make understanding possible and sustained. The connection of a branch (i.e. sheep) to the Vine (the shepherd) make flow from Shepherd to the sheep sustainable and continuous. John15:4
B. Implications of Shepherd-Sheep Interface:
In a panoramic view, it implies the relationship the believers have with Jesus Christ the importance for our lives as His children:
1. It speak about life of dependency with the shepherd- John 15:4-5, as the branch is inseparable from the root/stem, so the sheep must remain dependent of God for everything- Psalm 23;1-2; Be It nurturing, nourishment, guidance, instruction connotes
2. It connotes life of continuous fellowship with the father-coming to Christ is good but maintaining a consistent and sustained regular fellowship with Jesus is the ultimate- I John 1:3; Psalm 139:7-10; John 10:30.
3. It teaches us about need for all-time intimacy with Christ- the ultimate level of interface for the sheep-shepherd relationship is found in deep intimacy. The shepherd and the sheep are closely knitted as one. They become inseparable, move together at the impulse of the shepherd and everything in the shepherd is reflected in the sheep- John 10:27-28
John 10:27-28: “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.”
C. Absent Shepherd-sheep Interface- John 15:5
Any sheep that has no point of interaction or connection with the Shepherd shall live independent of the shepherd and the outcome is a dangerous one.
1. Lost and Loneliness: Without the Shepherd’s guidance, the sheep may become lost and disconnected from the flock, making it vulnerable to spiritual predators- Matthew 9:36:1 Peter 2:25
2. Deception and false teachings: Without the Shepherd’s voice, the sheep may be deceived by false teachings and misleading philosophies. This is rampant and prevalent today leading many away from the scriptural provisions of God- – Matthew 24:24; 2 Timothy 4:3-4; Col.3:7-8
3. Spiritual stagnation: Without the Shepherd’s nourishment, the sheep may stagnate spiritually, failing to grow or mature in its faith. All living can only grow in Christ when they are properly fed appropriate meal for age- Hebrews 5:12-14; Ephesians 4:13-14; 2 Peter 3:18
ConclusionOnly the connectivity of the sheep to shepherd that guarantees continuous flow. Remain in Him.