Sheep are not capable of self-direction, they need a shepherd to guide them. Jesus compares Himself to a shepherd and us as sheep. God wants His begotten children to be vulnerable, not self-led but growing in knowledge. Those whom God calls as shepherds and teachers are told to feed the sheep and be examples. We were not intended to be self-directed, we need the direction and growth that doesn't come from being alone.

John Elliott

Elder, United Church of God

John Elliott is a retired pastor of congregations in Canada, the United States, East Africa and served as a member of the Council of Elders.