10 QUALITIES OF A GOOD SHEEPHERED

Introduction
As Christians, we are often referred to as sheep, and Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd. This analogy is
rooted in the scriptures and highlights the importance of spiritual guidance and care for the followers of
Christ. In John 10:11, Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep”
(NKJV). Ako amo ang maayo nga manugbantay sang mga karnero. Ang maayo nga manugbantay desidido
nga mapatay para sa iya mga karnero. Understanding the qualities of a good shepherd helps us to
appreciate the leadership of Jesus and the role we have within the church.

In this study, we will explore the 10 qualities of a good shepherd, using examples from the New King James
Version (NKJV) of the Bible. By examining these qualities, we can gain a better understanding of our
responsibilities as Christians and how we can help one another in our journey of faith.
Ako amo ang maayo nga manugbantay sang mga karnero. Ang maayo nga manugbantay desidido nga
mapatay para sa iya mga karnero. John 10:11

1. Willingness to Sacrifice
A good shepherd is willing to make sacrifices for the well-being of their flock. In John 10:11, Jesus says, “I
am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep” (NKJV). This willingness to sacrifice
is a crucial aspect of spiritual leadership. A shepherd puts the needs of their flock above their own,
demonstrating the selfless love that Jesus exemplified.
We can see this willingness to sacrifice in the Apostle Paul’s ministry. In 2 Corinthians 11:23-28,

23Kon nagasiling sila nga sila mga alagad ni Cristo, mas maayo ako nga alagad ni Cristo sang sa ila.
Nahibaluan ko nga sa sining akon mga ginapabugal daw sa buang gid ako, pero ang matuod, mas maayo gid
ako nga alagad sang sa ila tungod kay mas madamo ang akon pagpangabudlay kon ikomparar sa ila. Kag
mas madamo nga beses ako napriso. Permi gid ako ginhanot, kag makapila ka beses nga ara ako sa peligro
sang kamatayon. 24Lima gid ka beses nga ginhanot ako sang akon kapareho nga mga Judio sing tag-39 ka
lapdos. 25Tatlo ka beses ako ginlampusan sang mga Romanhon. Kag kaisa ako ginbato sang mga Judio.
Katatlo ako nakaagi nga nalunod ang akon ginasakyan, kag isa sina ka bes, isa ka adlaw kag isa ka gab-i ang
akon paglutaw-lutaw sa lawod.
26. Sa akon pagbiyahe sa nagkalain-lain nga lugar, ang akon kabuhi permi nabutang sa peligro. Nabutang
ako sa peligro sa akon mga pagtabok sa mga suba, sa mga tulisan, sa akon kapareho nga mga Judio, sa mga
indi Judio, sa siyudad, sa kamingawan, sa dagat, kag sa mga tawo nga nagapakuno-kuno nga sila mga utod
man sa Ginoo. 27Naagihan ko man ang mga kabudlayan tungod sang akon obra, kag kon kaisa wala gani
ako tinulugan. May mga beses nga indi ako makakaon, kag kon kaisa wala gid ako sing may makaon kag
bisan gani sang mainom wala gid. Naagihan ko man ang katugnaw kag kakulang sang bayo. 28Wala pa labot
sang akon mga naagihan nga wala ko nasambit, nagapalibog pa ako adlaw-adlaw sa kahimtangan sang
tanan nga iglesya.

Paul lists the many hardships he faced in service to Christ and his fellow believers. As Christians, we should
strive to follow these examples and be willing to make sacrifices for the benefit of others.

2. Nurturing and Caring

A good shepherd is nurturing and caring, tending to the needs of their flock. In Psalm 23, we read about the
tender care of the Lord as our shepherd: “He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside
the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake” (Psalm
23:2-3, NKJV).
(Psalm 23:2-3, NKJV). Daw pareho ako sa karnero nga ginapapahuway mo sa palahalban nga bugana
sang hilamon kag ginatuytuyan sa malinaw nga tubig. 3 Ginapabaskog mo ako.Ginatuytuyan mo ako sa
husto nga dalan agod mapadunggan ka.
A shepherd provides for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of their flock, ensuring that they are
well-nourished and cared for.
In the New Testament, we find Jesus demonstrating this nurturing aspect of a good shepherd. In Matthew
9:36, it says, “But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they
were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd” (NKJV). As Christians, we should strive to
emulate this compassionate care for others.

Mattew 9: 36
Pagkakita niya sa madamo nga mga tawo, naluoy gid siya sa ila tungod nga madamo ang ila mga
palaligban pero wala sing may nagabulig sa ila. Pareho sila sa mga karnero nga wala sing manugbantay.

3. Knowing the Flock

A good shepherd knows their flock intimately. Jesus explains the importance of this knowledge in John
10:14, saying, “I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own” (NKJV).
John 10:14-15 Pero ako amo ang maayo nga manugbantay sang mga karnero. Kon paano ang pagkakilala
sa akon sang Amay kag ang akon pagkakilala sa iya, pareho man sina ang akon pagkakilala sa akon mga
karnero kag ang ila pagkakilala sa akon. Kag ihatag ko ang akon kabuhi para sa ila.

A shepherd must be familiar with the needs, strengths, and weaknesses of each member of their flock to
effectively guide and protect them.

Similarly, in Acts 20:28, the Apostle Paul encourages the elders of the Ephesian church to “take heed to
yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the
church of God which He purchased with His own blood” (NKJV).
Acts 20:28 Bantayi gid ninyo ang inyo kaugalingon kag ang tanan nga tawo sang Dios nga
ginapabantayan sa inyo sang Espiritu Santo. Tatapa gid ninyo ang iglesya sang Dios nga iya gintubos paagi
sa iya kaugalingon nga dugo.[a]

Knowing the flock allows the shepherd to respond to the specific needs of each individual and to lead the
congregation effectively.

4. Protecting the Flock

A good shepherd is vigilant in protecting their flock from danger.
In John 10:12-13, Jesus contrasts the good shepherd with a hireling, who abandons the sheep when danger
approaches: “But a hireling, he who is not the shepherd, one who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf
coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf catches the sheep and scatters them. The hireling flees
because he is a hireling and does not care about the sheep” (John 10:12-13, NKJV).

John 10:12-13 Indi siya pareho sa tawo nga ginasuhulan lang nga magbantay. Kay ang tawo nga
ginasuhulan lang nagapalagyo kon makita na niya nga nagaabot ang mabangis nga ido, [a] kag bayaan lang
niya ang mga karnero. Gani nagalalapta ang mga karnero kag ang iban sa ila tukbon.
13
Ang sinuhulan nagapalagyo, tungod kay sinuhulan man lang siya kag baliwala lang sa iya kon ano ang
matabo sa mga karnero.

A good shepherd is devoted to the safety and well-being of their flock, even if it means facing danger
themselves. In the spiritual realm, this means being watchful against false teachings and harmful influences
that may threaten the faith of the congregation.
In 1 Peter 5:8, we are warned to “be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a
roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (NKJV).

8
Magpugong kamo sang inyo kaugalingon kag magbantay! Kay ang inyo kaaway nga si Satanas nagalibot-
libot pareho sang leon nga nagangurob kag nagapangita sang tulukbon.

As Christians, we should be diligent in defending our faith and the faith of our fellow believers.

5. Leading by Example
A good shepherd leads by example, demonstrating a life of faith and integrity that others can follow.

In 1 Peter 5:2-3, the Apostle Peter instructs the elders to “shepherd the flock of God which is among you,
serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords
over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock” (NKJV).

1 Peter 5:2-3 2 tatapon ninyo sing maayo ang mga katawhan sang Dios nga ara sa inyo. Pareho sila sa mga
karnero kag kamo amo ang mga manugbantay sa ila. Dapat kinabubut-on gid ang inyo pagtatap sa ila kay
amo ini ang kabubut-on sang Dios, indi nga napilitan lang kamo ukon may ginapaabot kamo nga suhol,
kundi tungod kay gusto gid ninyo nga makabulig sa ila. 3. Indi kamo magpakahari-hari sa mga tumuluo
nga gintugyan sa inyo nga tatapon, kundi mangin sulundan kamo nila.

A shepherd’s actions should reflect the values and teachings of Christ so that the flock can emulate their
leadership.

Jesus was the ultimate example of a good shepherd, as he not only taught but also lived out the principles
he preached. Philippians 2:5-7 says, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in
the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation,
taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men” (NKJV).

5
Hupti ninyo ini nga panghunahuna nga iya man ni Cristo Jesus: 6 Bisan ang kinaiya sang Dios ara sa iya,
wala niya ginpaminsar ang iya pagkatupong sa Dios nga mangin kabangdanan sang pagpamintaha.
7
Kundi ginpakanubo niya ang iya kaugalingon paagi sa pagsuksok sang kinaiya sang isa ka
ulipon.Nagpakatawo siya nga pareho sang mga tawo.

As followers of Christ, we should strive to live our lives in a way that honors Him and serves as a positive
example to others.

6. Humility -Matthew 11:29

A good shepherd exhibits humility, recognizing their dependence on God for wisdom and strength. Jesus
himself modeled humility throughout his life and ministry.

In Matthew 11:29, Jesus says, “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in
heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (NKJV).

29
Magsunod kamo kag magpatudlo sa akon kay mabuot ako kag mapainubuson. Makapahuway kamo,

A humble shepherd acknowledges their limitations and relies on God’s guidance to lead their flock.
Paul exemplified this humility in his ministry, stating in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, “And He said to me, ‘My grace
is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’
9
Pero wala niya pagkuhaa. Sa baylo nagsiling siya, “Ang akon bulig amo lang ang imo kinahanglan. Kay
makita gid ang akon gahom kon maluya ka.” Gani malipayon gid ako sa pagpabugal parte sa akon mga
kaluyahon, agod mabatyagan ko permi ang gahom ni Cristo sa akon.
10. Gani malipayon ako subong sa akon mga kaluyahon, sa mga pagpasipala sa akon, sa mga kabudlayan,
sa mga paghingabot, kag sa mga kapiutan tungod sang akon pagsunod kay Cristo. Kay kon maluya ako,
ginapabaskog ako sang Dios.

Therefore, most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me”
(NKJV). Embracing humility allows us to be more effective shepherds, as we learn to depend on God’s
wisdom and strength.

7. Patience
A good shepherd demonstrates patience, understanding that growth and change often take time.
In 2 Peter 3:9, we read that “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is
longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance” (NKJV).

9
Suno sa ginahunahuna sang iban, nagapatumbaya ang Ginoo sa pagtuman sang iya promisa. Pero ang
matuod, wala siya nagapatumbaya kundi nagahulat siya nga maghinulsol ang mga tawo sa ila mga sala,
tungod kay indi niya luyag nga may mawala.

A patient shepherd is willing to invest time and effort in their flock, nurturing them through challenges and
setbacks.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:14, Paul instructs the believers to “be patient with all” (NKJV).
14
Nagapangabay man kami sa inyo nga paandaman ninyo ang mga matamad. Palig-una ninyo ang mga
mahinadlukon kag buligan ang mga maluya sa ila pagtuo. Kag magmapinasensyahon kamo sa tanan.

As Christians, we should strive to practice patience in our interactions with others, recognizing that each
person is on their unique journey of faith.

8. Encouragement
A good shepherd offers encouragement to their flock, lifting their spirits and motivating them to persevere
in their faith.
Hebrews 10:24-25 states, “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not
forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and
so much the more as you see the Day approaching” (NKJV).

24
Kag tinguhaan ta gid nga mapukaw ang balatyagon sang kada isa nga maghigugma sa iya
isigkatawo kag maghimo sang maayo. 25. Indi ta gid pagpabay-an ang aton kinabatasan nga pagtilipon,
pareho sang pagpabaya nga ginahimo sang iban, kundi palig-unon ta ang isa kag isa, labi na gid subong
nga makita ta na nga malapit na lang ang pagbalik sang Ginoo.

Encouragement can be a powerful tool to help believers remain steadfast in their walk with Christ.
Paul often encouraged the early Christian communities, as seen in his letters to the churches. In Philippians
4:13, he writes, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (NKJV).

13
Masarangan ko nga atubangon ang bisan ano nga kahimtangan paagi sa bulig ni Cristo nga
nagapabakod sa akon.
As Christians, we should seek to encourage one another in our faith, offering support and uplifting words.

9. Wisdom
A good shepherd possesses wisdom, which allows them to discern the best course of action in various
situations. James 1:5 states, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and
without reproach, and it will be given to him” (NKJV).

5
Kon may ara sa inyo nga kulang sang kaalam, magpangayo siya sa Dios, kag ang Dios magahatag sini sa
iya nga wala sing hawid-hawid kag aligutgot.[a]

A wise shepherd seeks God’s guidance and uses their experience and understanding to make well-informed
decisions.
In the Bible, we see numerous examples of wise leaders, such as Solomon, who sought God’s wisdom in
governing his kingdom. As Christians, we should continually seek wisdom from God, allowing it to shape our
thoughts, actions, and decision-making.

10. Faithfulness
A good shepherd is faithful to their calling, consistently fulfilling their responsibilities and demonstrating
loyalty to God and their flock.
In 1 Corinthians 4:2, Paul states, “Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful” (NKJV).

2
Kag ang tawo nga ginasaligan dapat magpakita nga masaligan gid siya.

A faithful shepherd is reliable and trustworthy, providing stability and support for their congregation.
Throughout the Bible, we find examples of faithful leaders, such as Moses, who led the Israelites through
the wilderness and remained steadfast in his faith despite numerous challenges. As Christians, we should
strive to be faithful in our walk with Christ, remaining committed to our beliefs and responsibilities.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the expanded list of 10 qualities of a good shepherd provides a comprehensive framework for
effective spiritual leadership and guidance. By embracing humility, patience, encouragement, wisdom, and
faithfulness, in addition to the previously discussed qualities of willingness to sacrifice, nurturing and caring,
knowing the flock, protecting the flock, and leading by example, we can become more Christ-like shepherds
to those around us.
By incorporating these qualities into our lives, both within our church communities and in our everyday
interactions, we can better serve and support one another in our journey of faith. As we strive to grow in
these areas, we will not only honor Jesus, our Good Shepherd, but also help to foster a more
compassionate and spiritually mature community of believers.
Let us continue to look to Jesus as our ultimate example and draw strength and guidance from Him in our
roles as shepherds.
Hebrews 13:20-21 says, “Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that
great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every
good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom
be glory forever and ever. Amen” (NKJV).