1 Samuel 17 - Shepherds Keep Watch
Can you recall a time you have benefited from excellent shepherding care? Share your experience. What was the context, who was the shepherd, and why was it meaningful to you?
Read 1 Samuel 17:5-11. How is Goliath portrayed in these verses? What words would you use to describe him in your own words?
Read 1 Samuel 17:45-47. Shepherds recognize threats. The army saw Goliath as a threat to their safety, but David recognized a spiritual threat. How did Goliath pose a threat to the spiritual welfare of the Israelite troops?
Read 1 Samuel 17:34-36. Shepherds take responsibility. How did David take responsibility while overseeing his father’s flocks? How did that translate to his action with Goliath? What was it in God’s character that emboldened David to take responsibility for the welfare of others? Do you feel the same way about God’s character?
Read Acts 20:28-31. Shepherds care for the flock. What constitutes a shepherd, and what constitutes a wolf? How does David’s conduct in 1 Samuel 17 mirror Paul’s exhortation to the Ephesian elders in Acts 20?
Can you answer the question: Who is shepherding you? Spend some time praying for one another and for all those engaged in shepherding leadership at VBCC.