Reflecting on John 10:1-6“They will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” (John 10:5)
Jesus is describing a natural phenomena, how sheep respond to strangers.
They are hesitant, cautious, and will bolt if they sense danger.
Jesus uses this figure of speech to explain how people responded to Him.
The desperate, needy and helpless crowds felt safe with Jesus and came to Him.
But those in political and religious power sensed danger, and fled.
This phenomena may also explain why people leave church.
My concern is that many do not feel safe there, and do not trust the leaders.
I have heard from many who say they did not sense Jesus in the church.
I believe that Jesus is compelling to those who struggle or need help.
If a church is like Jesus, they will be drawn there too.
This IS why many come to a church, they are looking for help and hope.
But why do many also leave the church… are they fearing the stranger?
What if it is because they are not hearing Jesus that they run away?
Instead of being critical, we should look at ourselves to see if we sound like Jesus.
As Jesus followers we do not want to be the ‘stranger’ that drives people away.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, people are looking for help and hope, yet sadly many are not finding it in their church. I do not want to be the stranger that drives sheep away. Help me to become more like You, so that people recognize Your Voice in me.
I need to be a stepping stone and not a stumbling block. Help me daily Lord to be an instrument of Your peace showing the love of Christ by my words and deeds.