Definition:
“Sheep, wolves, and shepherds” are often used metaphorically to represent different roles and dynamics within a group or society.
Etymology:
Sheep: From the Old English “sceap” or “scep.”
Wolves: From the Old English “wulf.”
Shepherds: From the Old English “sceaphierde,” combining “sceap” (sheep) and “hierde” (herder).
Description:
In the Bible, sheep often represent the followers of God or the faithful. Sheep are seen as vulnerable and in need of guidance and protection. In the Bible, in Psalm, chapter 23, verse 1, it says: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” This verse emphasizes God as the shepherd who provides and cares for His sheep. In the Bible, in John, chapter 10, verse 27, it says: “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” Here, Jesus refers to His followers as sheep who recognize and follow His guidance.
The Bible teach that wolves typically symbolize danger, deception, and predators that threaten the flock. They represent false prophets, corrupt leaders, or any forces that seek to harm or mislead the faithful. In the Bible, in Matthew, chapter 7, verse 15, it says: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep‘s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” This verse warns against those who disguise themselves as trustworthy but seek to deceive and harm. In the Bible, in Acts, chapter 20, verse 29, it says: “I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock.” This is a warning from Paul about future dangers to the church from false teachers and leaders.
According the the Bible, the shepherd represents Jesus Christ or God, who leads, protects, and cares for His people. The role of the shepherd is to guide and protect the sheep from harm. In the Bible, in John, chapter 10, verse 11, it says: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” Jesus identifies Himself as the shepherd who sacrifices for the well-being of His flock. In the Bible, in 1 Peter, chapter 5, verses 2-3, it says: “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.” This passage speaks to the role of human leaders in the church as shepherds who should care for their congregation selflessly.
If one actually applies a bit of thought to what is written in the Bible, it becomes obvious that, since God does not exist, and since the Bible tells us: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep‘s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves,” and instructs human leaders in the church to “Be shepherds of God’s flock,” in this story, God, Jesus, and church leaders are the false prophets. They are the wolves in sheep‘s clothing. God and Jesus are fictional characters, and church leaders are liars.