Come Be My Follower - Jehovah's Witnesses Official Media Web Site

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“COMEBEMYFOLLOWER”
occupation come into play. For instance, an illustration
that mentions details about farming might be more readily
understood in an agricultural area than in a large city.
The everyday life and activities of our hearers—their children,
their house, their hobbies, their food—might also
provide the basis for fitting illustrations.
Drawing From Creation
15 Many of Jesus’ illustrations reveal his knowledge of
the natural world, including plants, animals, and the elements.
(Matthew 16:2, 3; Luke 12:24, 27) Where did he
get such knowledge? While growing up in Galilee, he no
doubt had ample opportunity to observe creation. More
significantly, Jesus is “the firstborn of all creation,” and in
creating all things, Jehovah used him as the “master worker.”(Colossians1:15,16;Proverbs8:30,31)Isitanywonder
that Jesus was intimately acquainted with creation?
Let us see how he put this knowledge to skillful use.
16 Recall that Jesus identified himself as “the fine shepherd”
and his followers as “the sheep.” Jesus’ words indicate
that he was very familiar with the traits of domestic
sheep. He knew that there was a unique bond between
shepherds and their sheep. He noted that these trusting
creatures readily allowed themselves to be led and that
they faithfully followed their shepherd. Why do sheep follow
their shepherd? “Because they know his voice,” said
Jesus. (John 10:2-4, 11) Do sheep really know their shepherd’s
voice?
17 From personal observation, George A. Smith wrote
in his book The Historical Geography of the Holy Land:
15. Why is it no wonder that Jesus was intimately acquainted with
creation?
16, 17. (a) What indicates that Jesus was very familiar with the
traits of sheep? (b) What example shows that sheep really do listen
to the voice of their shepherd?