Enlarging The Flock

Sheep, left to themselves, will wander. Although they like the security of the flock they are also independent animals; without a leader they easily forget where they are and get lost. Jesus said that His sheep (His people) were not just in Israel and that He was determined to bring them back under His leadership. He was claiming the Lordship over many people, Jews and Gentiles, who He would call into His kingdom.
 
Although the children of Israel (the descendents of Jacob - 'Israel' was Jacob's God-given new name - Genesis 35:10) were special to God, Jesus said that people from other nations also belonged to Him (Acts 18:10). He promised to call them, and those who listened to His voice would come to Him and become one flock. But this was not a casual remark; He said that He 'must' bring them into His flock. He was determined to extend His kingdom ... that is why He came to earth to die and open a way ... for 'whoever calls on His name to be saved' (Acts 2:21).
 
Most people do not realise that God has 'ownership rights' over them. He has created them, in His own image, and the sacrifice of Jesus is available to them ... if only they will hear His call. But how will they hear? Romans 10:14 says: "But how can they call on Him to save them unless they believe in Him? And how can they believe in Him if they have never heard about Him? And how can they hear about Him unless someone tells them?" (New Living Translation). Some Christians think that means only 'qualified ministers' can tell others. No! If you know you have been saved by Jesus, you have enough information to tell others, and explain why you think and behave as you do. And for many people those conversations happen most naturally with work colleagues who observe your way of life but cannot explain why. Don't let them wander any further away from their Shepherd. Just tell them about Jesus!