SHEPHERDS
Thompson Chain Reference (1934)
Torrey's New Topical Textbook
Early mention of
Usually carried a scrip or bag
Carried a staff or rod
Dwelt in tents while tending their flocks
Members of the family both male and female acted as
Had hired keepers under them
The unfaithfulness of hireling, alluded to
An abomination to the Egyptians
CARE OF THE SHEEP BY, EXHIBITED IN
Knowing them
Going before and leading them
Seeking out good pasture for them
Numbering them when they return from pasture
Watching over them by night
Tenderness to the ewes in lamb, and to the young
Defending them when attacked by wild beasts
Searching them out when lost and straying
Attending them when sick
ILLUSTRATIVE
Of God as leader of Israel
Of Christ as the good shepherd
Of kings as the leaders of the people
Of ministers of the gospel
(Searching out straying sheep,) of Christ seeking the lost
(Their care and tenderness,) of tenderness of Christ
(Ignorant and foolish,) of bad ministers