Who Were the Shepherds? The Gospel’s Call to the Humble
Keyword: Shepherds and Humility
Introduction
The shepherds in the Christmas story are often overshadowed by the angels’ glorious announcement or the wise men’s long journey. Yet their role is crucial, offering profound lessons about God’s priorities and the inclusivity of the Gospel. Why did God choose these humble shepherds as the first witnesses of Jesus’ birth? What does this tell us about His heart for humanity? In this article, we explore the significance of the shepherds in Luke 2 and how their story calls us to a life of humility and obedience.
Shepherds in Biblical Times: A Lowly Occupation
In first-century Judea, shepherding was not a glamorous profession. Shepherds often lived on the margins of society, working long hours in harsh conditions. They were considered unclean by religious standards, excluded from many of the social and religious activities of the day.
Despite their low status, the Bible repeatedly highlights shepherds in significant roles. From Abel (Genesis 4:2) to David (1 Samuel 16:11), God used shepherds to fulfill His purposes. Jesus Himself referred to His role as “the good shepherd” in John 10:11, showing the deep spiritual significance of this humble profession.
The Angels’ Announcement: A Message to the Marginalized
When the angels appeared to the shepherds in the fields near Bethlehem, they brought a message of joy and hope:
“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11, NIV).
The fact that this announcement came to shepherds rather than priests, kings, or scholars is profound. It underscores a recurring biblical theme: God often reveals Himself to the humble and the lowly rather than the proud and powerful (James 4:6).
What the Shepherds Teach Us About Humility and Faith
The shepherds’ response to the angels’ announcement is a testament to their faith and humility.
- Immediate Obedience: “When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about’” (Luke 2:15, NIV). Their willingness to leave their sheep and seek the Savior demonstrates a prioritization of God’s call over their livelihood.
- Spreading the Good News: After seeing the Christ child, the shepherds became the first evangelists: “When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child” (Luke 2:17, NIV). Their example reminds us that the Gospel is not meant to be kept private but shared with joy.
- Glorifying God: The shepherds returned to their fields, praising God for all they had witnessed (Luke 2:20). Their worshipful response shows that encountering Jesus should lead to glorifying God in our daily lives.
The Gospel’s Call to the Humble
The shepherds’ story reminds us that the Gospel is for everyone, regardless of status, wealth, or influence. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus invites all who are weary and burdened to come to Him, a message that echoes the shepherds’ experience. God values humility, faith, and obedience over worldly achievements or recognition.
As 1 Peter 5:6 encourages: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” The shepherds exemplify this truth, showing that God exalts the humble and uses them for His purposes.
Conclusion: The Shepherd’s Legacy
The shepherds of Bethlehem remind us that God’s love and salvation are for all people, especially those who feel overlooked or unworthy. Their story challenges us to live with humility, faith, and a willingness to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others.
Quote to Reflect On:
“God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are” (1 Corinthians 1:28, ESV).
The shepherds’ role in the Christmas story shows us that God values the humble heart willing to listen, obey, and proclaim His glory.
