The Sheep/Shepherd Relationship

By Marvin K. Myles Sr.

Psalm 100:3

The whole world operates by principles that determine the interactions of individuals, families, and groups of all sizes. One such principle is that of relationship. In this paper, we will discuss the relationship between the sheep and the shepherd. These words are metaphors used to describe people in their respective positions or arenas. We will discuss the characteristics of a sheep, the characteristics of a shepherd, the relationship between the sheep and the shepherd, and finally, the Good shepherd and the sheep. If we would take a close look at the inner workings and outward actions of the sheep and the shepherd, even the actual sheep (animal) and the shepherd, what would we see?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Dec 4, 2014
• ISBN: 9781503518049

Marvin K. Myles Sr.

Rev. Marvin K. Myles is a native of Friars Point (Coahoma County), Mississippi. Born the eighth child and seventh son of the late Dudley and Bertha L. Myles, he began his education at Friars Point Elementary School. He completed high school at Coahoma Agricultural High in Clarksdale, Mississippi, and received an AA degree in general business form Coahoma Junior college (also in Clarksdale). He received a BS degree in Business Administration from Mississippi Valley State University in May 2000 and a M. A. degree in biblical studies in 2005 from Louisiana Baptist University and Theological Seminary in Shreveport, Louisiana. In May 2007, Rev. Myles became Dr. Myles, when he completed his PhD in biblical studies at Louisiana Baptist University and Theological Seminary. He also decided to do additional advances study at the same seminary and received the M.Div. in 2011. Dr. Myles heeded the call to preach the Gospel in 1981 and shortly after, became the pastor of Liberty M. B. Church, Lyon, Mississippi (1982-2001), and Friendship M. B. Church in his hometown of Friars Point, Mississippi (1985-2001). He has faithfully shepherded the congregation at Christian Liberty M. B. church in Kosciusko (Attala County), Mississippi, since 2001. Married to the former Olivia Jones, also of Friars Point, they are the proud parents of three sons, two daughters, and one grandson. Together, they are Gospel recording artist, The Myles Family, and have traveled extensively, nationally and internationally. Dr. Myles has served as executive director of the General Missionary Baptist State Convention Music Department until July 2013, under the leadership of Dr. Jerry Young, who was recently elected as president of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., and Dr. Isiac Jackson, Jr., current president of the General Missionary Baptist State Convention. Further, Dr. Myles serves as instructor of church history in the National Baptist Congress of Christian Education, moderator of The Mt. Hope District Association in Kosciusko, Mississippi, and has recently been appointed to serve in the Moderator’s Auxiliary in the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. Dr. Myles is a born-again child of God, anointed to deliver God’s message to the people of God.

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Copyright © 2014 by Marvin K. Myles, Sr.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Scripture quotations are from the Holy Bible, King James Version (Authorized Version). First published in 1611. Quoted from the KJV Classic Reference Bible, Copyright © 1983 by The Zondervan Corporation.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

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Rev. date: 12/03/2014

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Contents

Psalm 100:3

I    Characteristics Of A Sheep

II    Characteristics Of A Shepherd

III    The Relationship Between The Sheep And The Shepherd

IV    The Good Shepherd and Sheep

V    Personal Experiences as a Sheep and a Shepherd

Bibliography

PSALM 100:3

T HE WHOLE WORLD operates by principles that determine the interactions of individuals, families, and groups of all sizes irrespective of color or creed. One such principle is that of relationship. This book will discuss the Relationship between the Sheep and the Shepherd. These words are metaphors used to describe people in their respective positions or arenas, particularly in the Spiritual Realm. We will discuss the characteristics of a Sheep, the characteristics of a Shepherd, the relationship between the Sheep and the Shepherd, and finally the Good Shepherd and the Sheep. Prayerfully, the reader will find in these pages nuggets and principles that will help him/her in both secular and religious wo rlds.

If one will take a closer look at the dynamics and functioning of the Sheep and the Shepherd, perhaps he/she will inculcate these biblical principles that are herein taught in the lives of those within their hearing. We teach by precept and example.

What will be your takeaway when you perceive the similarities between Christ and Christians, paralleled with Pastor and People?

I

Characteristics Of A Sheep

A. The Physical Make-Up of Sheep

T HE PHYSICAL MAKE-UP of sheep is paramount to the foundational belief that these animals have dominant features that allow them to survive in the surroundings in which they live. Kentucky is one area where sheep herding was a part of the economic development. A typical family of four arriving in Kentucky in 1840 had a ram and three ewes among other animals (Edward N. Wentworth, America’s Sheep Trails; History and Personalities ). At first, the prospect of raising sheep on a large scale in Kentucky seemed bleak. Settlers’ dogs and other predators’ wreaked havoc in small herds and wild nettle burrs, which grew in abundance, became entangled in the sheep’s wool making it difficult to use. By the 1800’s the sheep population was well established in the bluegrass section of Kentucky around Lexington, Frankfort, and Sheep Harrodsburg (Thomas D. Clark, Agrarian Kentucky : Edward N. Wentworth, America’s Trials; History and Personalities ). It is clear that there were some hazards dealing with the sheep because of its wool. It is no wonder that predators took advantage of the humble character of the sheep, given their meek and quiet character. Further, burrs, sticky weed and any other weed that they became entangled in, caused problems also. But, doesn’t every thing have advantages and disadvantages? Isn’t it true that it takes effort to stabilize worthwhile ventures? Not all sheep produce wool; some are entirely covered with hair ( Collier’s Encyclopedia , #20, p. 654).

According to Collier’s Encyclopedia, there are more than 850 breeds of sheep in the world today, including improved and unimproved sheep. They are commonly divided into categories based on characteristics of the tail. The Long-tail breeds include primitive as well as the common improved breeds of the Western world. The Fat-tailed breeds are those with very long tails that tend to accumulate large amounts of fat in the tail over good feed periods. The tail may reach such a weight that herdsmen find it necessary to build a small wheeled cart or sled to keep the skin of the tail from wearing through against the ground.

The Broad-tailed breeds are those with long tails that widen in the upper portion to form a broad flap of fatty tissue on each margin. The Fat-rumped Sheep have a very short tail, which is usually hidden by two tremendous pillows or rolls of fat on the rump. The Short-tailed breed contains only a few vertebrae in the short tail, and do not show heavy fat deposits as do the fat-rumped breeds (Collier’s Encyclopedia, #20; p. 656). Surely it is not the physical makeup of the sheep that correlates to the Christian, yet, the physicality should urge servility among people. The two main uses of sheep were for meat and for wool.

An article entitled, Kentucky down Under: Sheep in Kentucky, published information that gives gravity to the Chemistry of Wool. What makes wool as useful for fabric? Several characteristics set it apart from other types of fiber and make it a favorite of many clothing manufacturers. It is first, Flame Resistant. Because of its unique physical and chemical makeup, wool does not melt nor does it support combustion. Secondly, it is Absorbent. Wool works with the body’s natural temperature regulating system to keep the body warm in the winter and cool in the summer. How does it work? It all revolves around wool’s absorbent capabilities. During the winter when the air is cold and damp, wool absorbs the moisture and keeps a layer of dry, insulating air next to the skin. When it is warm, it again absorbs moisture in the form of perspiration and keeps insulating dry air next to the skin.

This special feature caught the attention of the oil industry. According to the American Sheep Industry Association, more and more companies are turning to wool products for help in cleaning up oil spills. Wool can absorb from 10 to 30 times its weight in oil while still repelling water. The oil can then be squeezed out and the wool may be used again. In fact, it can be reused up to eight times. Thirdly, it is Adaptable. Wool comes in a variety of weights and weaves. The quality of the wool depends upon the type of sheep from which it comes, and the conditions under which the sheep is raised. Some sheep produce fine woolen fibers, while others grow coarse or medium ones. The wool industry uses all types. Coarse wool makes excellent carpets; medium wool turns into comfortable blankets, and fine wool provides beautiful dresses and suits. Fourthly, it is Durable. With the high cost of clothing these days, consumers want clothing that lasts. Wool provides longer wear, resists snags and tears, and retains its original shape for a long time. It doesn’t even wrinkle, which is good for people on the go (Educational materials for American Sheep Industry Association, 6911 S. Yosemite St., Englewood, Co 80112-1414).

Research shows that the sheep industry is