If you had to pick one animal that honestly represents your personality or tendencies, what would it be — and why?

Think of a time someone who loved you told you a hard truth. What made you able to receive it — or not receive it?

In John 10, Jesus calls himself the Good Shepherd and contrasts himself with the hired hand. What's the key difference Jesus draws between them, and why does that distinction matter for how we understand his love for us?

Keith pointed out that God uses two primary images for humanity — child and sheep. What does each image emphasize? Why might both be necessary together rather than just one?

Jesus says the hired hand "cares nothing for the sheep" and abandons them when danger comes. In what ways does this describe the limits of the shepherds we tend to trust — whether politicians, celebrities, or cultural influencers?

Keith described "soft shepherding" — the way algorithms, media, and advertising shape us without us realizing it. How does Jesus' description of his own voice in John 10 offer a different kind of leadership than soft power?

When you honestly look at your life — your habits, your fears, your patterns — where do you see evidence that you've been wandering or "stuck" in ways you didn't fully choose consciously?Reflect

Keith asked: "Is Jesus one of those people? Do you let Jesus say the hard thing to you?" How would you honestly answer that? What makes it easy or difficult to let Jesus speak into the harder areas of your life?Reflect

Which form of soft shepherding do you feel most susceptible to — news, social media, algorithms, advertising, cultural pressure? What does that reveal about what you're longing for?Reflect

The sermon says we are "hardwired for a leader." In what season of your life have you felt that most acutely — and who or what did you turn to fill that need?Reflect

What is one concrete step you could take this week to more intentionally listen for Jesus' voice — whether through Scripture, prayer, community, or silence — rather than defaulting to the loudest voice around you?Apply

Keith challenged us to notice who and what is actually shaping our thinking and desires. This week, pay attention to one area — your media diet, your social feed, a recurring habit — and ask: is this shepherd leading me toward or away from the Good Shepherd? Share what you notice with someone in this group.Apply

Is there a hard truth you sense Jesus might be speaking into your life right now that you've been slow to receive? What would it look like to open your hands to that this week?Apply

Who in your life needs to hear that there is a Good Shepherd who actually knows them, loves them, and won't abandon them? How might you point them toward Jesus in a natural, caring way in the coming days?Apply