The purpose of this Sermon Library is to support your spiritual growth as you revisit, reflect and meditate on the sermon topic, and study the Scriptures.

In each tab of the Study Guide, you will find information that will help you increase your understanding and knowledge of Yahweh’s Word and gain deeper insight into the Biblical topic covered.

You can engage in this study on your own or with a group.

It is our hope that these tools provide you with meaningful activities to help you on your walk, as you engage in them during the week and in days leading up to a Feast.

2 Timothy 2:15 – Study to shew thyself approved unto Elohim, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Study Guide
Summary – Read and reread to help you remember the answer to the question, “What was this sermon about?” so that you can deepen your understanding on this topic and can learn what to say in order to easily share this with others.

Points and Scriptures – Compare these to your notes. If needed, add the key points and Scriptures to your notes, for further review. Turn to each Scripture passage and read it. You may want to keep a notebook or journal, with Scripture Lists by topic. Scriptures that say (alluded to) next to it were included in content of the message (ex. appeared on a slide) without the Scripture itself being read.

Discussion Questions – Read one at a time, writing the answers down in your notebook or journal. Use your notes, as well as the information in the Points & Scriptures tab, to help you answer the questions.

Small Group Guide – We recommend that you engage in this activity during the week with a group of brethren, family members and/or friends.

Devotional – We recommend that you engage in these activities during the week and/or in days leading up to the Feast.

Sermon Summary: This sermon explores the concept of being a “good sheep” in Yahweh’s flock, emphasizing the importance of steadfastness, support, and unity among believers. It challenges the congregation to focus not just on the lost sheep but on being part of the faithful 99 that remain. The sermon highlights the responsibility of each member to maintain a welcoming and nurturing environment within the assembly, likened to keeping the pastures green and waters clear for all sheep.

Key Points:

• The importance of being steadfast and unmovable in faith
• Giving fully to the work of Yahweh with enthusiasm and willingness
• Supporting and gently guiding newer or struggling members
• Avoiding behaviors that “trample” the pasture or “muddy” the waters for others
• Celebrating the return of those who have strayed without resentment
• Working diligently in all aspects of life as if working for Yahweh
• The role of consistent, faithful members in maintaining the assembly’s strength
  
  

  Here are the scripture references mentioned or alluded to in the sermon:

  1. Luke 15:4-7 (The parable of the lost sheep)
  2. Ezekiel 34:17-24
  3. 1 Corinthians 15:58
  4. Colossians 3:23-24
  5. Luke 22:42
  6. Luke 15:11-32 (The parable of the prodigal son)
  7. Ezekiel 34 (general reference)
  8. Jeremiah 23 (general reference about wicked shepherds)
  9. 1 Corinthians 5:1-6 (alluded to, not directly quoted)
  10. Psalm 23:1-2

  Additional relevant verses that align with the main themes discussed:

  1. John 10:11-14 (Yahshua as the Good Shepherd)
  2. 1 Peter 5:2-3 (Instructions for shepherds/elders)
  3. Hebrews 13:17 (Obedience to leaders)
  4. Galatians 6:1-2 (Restoring those who sin gently)
  5. Matthew 18:12-14 (Another version of the lost sheep parable)
  6. Romans 12:10-13 (Love and service within the body of believers)
  7. Ephesians 4:11-16 (Unity and maturity in the body of Messiah)
  8. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (Encouraging and building up one another)
  9. Proverbs 27:23-24 (Caring for the flock)
  10. Isaiah 40:11 (Yahweh’s care for His flock)
  
  
  

How can we as individuals ensure we are being ‘good sheep’ in our faith communities, and what specific actions can we take to support and uplift others?

In what ways might we unintentionally ‘trample the grass’ or ‘muddy the waters’ for others in our spiritual journey, and how can we be more mindful of our impact?

How does the concept of being ‘steadfast’ in faith apply to modern life, and what challenges might we face in maintaining consistency in our beliefs and practices?

Reflecting on the parable of the prodigal son, how can we cultivate a spirit of celebration and forgiveness when those who have strayed return to the fold?

In what ways can we balance the need for correction within a faith community with the importance of gentleness and patience, especially when dealing with newer members?

How might our understanding of leadership within faith communities change if we focus more on being ‘good sheep’ rather than aspiring to be shepherds?

Considering the scripture from Ezekiel 34, how can we ensure we are not acting like the ‘bad sheep’ described, and what steps can we take to support the ‘weaker sheep’ in our midst?

How does the concept of ‘abounding in the work of Yahweh’ translate into our daily lives and occupations, and what might this look like in practice?

In what ways can we maintain our commitment to our faith and community even when we feel overlooked or underappreciated, like the older brother in the prodigal son parable?

How can we strike a balance between striving to be part of the ’99 sheep’ that don’t wander off, while still maintaining compassion and understanding for those who do?

Small Group Guide: Being a Good Sheep

Opening Prayer

Key Scripture:
– Ezekiel 34:17-24
– 1 Corinthians 15:58
– Luke 15:4-7
– Psalm 23:1-2

Discussion Questions:

1. What does it mean to be a “good sheep” in Yahweh’s flock? How does this differ from common perceptions of sheep?

2. The sermon mentions “trampling the grass” and “muddying the waters.” What are some ways we might unintentionally do this in our faith community?

3. How can we balance being steadfast in our faith while also being welcoming and gentle with newer or struggling believers?

4. Discuss a time when you witnessed or experienced someone being a “good sheep” in a challenging situation. What impact did it have?

5. The sermon emphasizes the importance of the “99” who stay. Why is this consistency so crucial for a faith community?

6. How can we cultivate an attitude of celebration when someone who has wandered returns, rather than resentment (like the older brother in the prodigal son parable)?

Key Takeaways:

1. Being steadfast and consistent is a vital role in the faith community.
2. Good sheep support and uplift others, especially those who are struggling.
3. We should strive to maintain “green pastures” and “clear waters” for all in our community.
4. Working abundantly for Yahweh, even in secular jobs, is part of being a good sheep.
5. Celebrating the return of those who have wandered is crucial.

Practical Applications:

1. Identify one area where you can be more consistent in your faith walk this week.
2. Reach out to someone who may be struggling or feeling disconnected from the community.
3. Look for opportunities to “abound in the work of Yahweh” in your daily life and work.
4. Practice responding with gentleness and patience when correcting or guiding others.
5. Commit to being a “willing arrow” by volunteering or helping in an area of need within your faith community.

Closing Prayer:
Thank Yahweh for His guidance as our shepherd and ask for strength to be good sheep who maintain and protect the flock.

Here’s a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from the transcription:

Day 1: Being a Good Sheep
Reading: Ezekiel 34:11-24
Devotional: Today’s reading reminds us of our dual role as both sheep in Yahweh’s flock and caretakers of our fellow believers. As we reflect on Ezekiel’s words, consider how you’ve been treating others in your faith community. Have you been trampling the pasture or muddying the waters for others? Or have you been nurturing and supportive? Yahweh calls us to be good sheep – steadfast, supportive, and welcoming. Today, make a conscious effort to encourage someone in your faith community. A kind word or small act of service can make a significant difference in someone’s spiritual journey.

Day 2: Steadfastness in Faith
Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:58 and Colossians 3:23-24
Devotional: Paul’s words to the Corinthians and Colossians emphasize the importance of being steadfast and fully committed in our faith and work. Reflect on areas of your life where you might be wavering or giving less than your best. Remember that everything we do, we do for Yahweh, not for human masters. How might your attitude and efforts change if you approached every task as if working directly for Elohim? Today, choose one area of your life where you can increase your commitment and effort, knowing that your labor in Yahweh is never in vain.

Day 3: The Joy of Repentance
Reading: Luke 15:1-7, 11-32
Devotional: The parables of the lost sheep and the prodigal son beautifully illustrate Yahweh’s love for those who have strayed and the joy of their return. As you read, put yourself in the place of the shepherd, the father, the older brother, and the returning son. Which role do you most often play in your faith community? Are you quick to celebrate when someone returns to faith, or do you struggle with resentment like the older brother? Today, pray for those you know who have wandered from their faith, and consider how you might welcome them back with open arms and celebration.

Day 4: Unity in the Flock
Reading: John 10:1-18 and 1 Peter 5:1-4
Devotional: Yahshua describes himself as the Good Shepherd who knows his sheep, and they know his voice. Peter exhorts elders to be shepherds of Yahweh’s flock. As members of Messiah’s flock, we have a responsibility to maintain unity and care for one another. Reflect on how well you know the Shepherd’s voice. Are you attuned to His guidance in your life? Consider also how you can help “shepherd” others in your faith community, particularly those who may be struggling or new to the faith. Today, make an effort to reach out to someone who might need encouragement or guidance in their spiritual walk.

Day 5: Green Pastures and Still Waters
Reading: Psalm 23
Devotional: This beloved psalm paints a serene picture of Yahweh’s care for His people. As you read, visualize yourself in those green pastures beside the still waters. What does it mean for you to “lack nothing” when Yahweh is your shepherd? Reflect on the times when you’ve felt Yahweh’s guidance through dark valleys and His protection in the presence of enemies. How can you help create “green pastures” for others in your faith community? Today, take time to thank Yahweh for His shepherding in your life, and consider how you can extend that same care to others around you.