good shepherd

Thân thiện

Jesus is the good shepherd who watches over his flock.

Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A title for Jesus Christ: "Good Shepherd" is a metaphorical title for Jesus Christ, emphasizing his role as a caring, protective, and guiding leader for his followers, akin to a shepherd caring for his sheep. This term originates from biblical scripture.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun:
  • In his sermon, the pastor spoke about the love of the Good Shepherd for his flock.
  • The parable of the Good Shepherd teaches about sacrifice and guidance.

Advanced Usage

• Theological context: The term is often used in Christian theology, art, and hymnody to symbolize Christ's pastoral care, his willingness to lay down his life for his followers, and his role in guiding believers.
  • The stained-glass window depicted the Good Shepherd carrying a lamb on his shoulders.

Variants and Related Words

• Shepherd (noun): A person who tends and guards sheep. Figuratively, a spiritual guide or leader.
• Pastor (noun): A minister in charge of a Christian church or congregation; shares the metaphorical shepherd imagery.

Synonyms

• Christ: The Messiah and central figure of Christianity.
• Redeemer: A savior or liberator, specifically Jesus Christ.

Related Phrases

• The Lord is my shepherd: The opening line of Psalm 23 in the Bible, which shares the same pastoral metaphor.
• Shepherd of souls: A poetic phrase for a spiritual guide, often referring to Christ or a clergy member.

Related Idioms

• To separate the sheep from the goats: An idiom with biblical origins (Matthew 25:32) referring to judging between the righteous and the unrighteous, often associated with the role of the Good Shepherd as judge.

Học thuật

Noun

1. a teacher and prophet born in Bethlehem and active in Nazareth; his life and sermons form the basis for Christianity (circa 4 BC - AD 29)