Thursday 24 April 2025
For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. (v. 17)
Background
This passage looks at the theme of 'the good shepherd' which leads traditionally to much discussion on shepherds and sheep. It is no longer as easy to relate to, when many of us are distanced from the land.
Another example of the shepherd looking after sheep is at Matthew 18:12. Jesus clearly used the image in his teaching and it's a much-loved theme in Christian art. It gives a great and positive image.
In today’s passage the shepherd is put alongside the theme of ‘laying down a life’. It is key, occurring five times in eight verses. It has led me to think that Jesus is using the image of the shepherd who sacrifices himself for the sheep to explain what is about to happen in his death and resurrection.
The repetition of the phrase is strengthened and built on throughout the passage. Introduced at verse 11, it is followed in verse 12 with the comparison with the hired hands who run away when the wolf appears. In verse 15 the link between Jesus and God (the Father) is stressed. In verse 17 the love of the Father is expressed. And finally, verse 18 tells of the voluntary nature of the action. Jesus is free to not only to lay his life down but also has the power to take it up, which is clearly a theme of resurrection.
Verse 17 should not be taken out of context. At first reading, it seems that the Father only loves the son because he lays down his life. This is not to see its real meaning. The love of God for the son is not based on the son's sacrifice but rather the commitment to follow God’s commands without question.
Jesus is not at the mercy of those around him. Rather he is in full control of the events. God in Jesus chose to take this path to show the depth of love. In this Easter week the culmination of this passage is shown not only in the laying down of his life but in picking it up shown in the Resurrection.
To Ponder:
- What does this passage say about the relationship between God and Jesus?
- What are we called to lay down this week?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, shepherd me through the challenges of this day and bring me safe to its conclusion. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Paul Davis
Paul Davis is a supernumerary minister in the Chorley and Leyland Circuit.