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The Good Shepherd: BFG Handbook Chapter 49 (Living Like Christ)
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Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-49-the-good-shepherd/
Ever wondered if the ancient image of Jesus as the "Good Shepherd" might contain practical wisdom for navigating today's complex relationships? Our deep dive into Chapter 49 of the Build for God movement reveals a fresh presentation of timeless truths that could transform how you connect with others.
The chapter outlines seven powerful attributes that defined Christ's shepherding approach: maintaining an open mind, showing righteousness to all, remaining unfailingly faithful, living in peace, deeply understanding others (or "merging minds"), leading by authentic example, and loving everyone as children. What makes this teaching particularly compelling is how it's meticulously grounded in scripture from Romans, Philippians, Matthew, Timothy, Acts, John, and Peter – demonstrating these aren't new ideas but ancient wisdom presented with renewed clarity.
At the heart of this teaching lies the MAP framework – Mindset, Aim, and Practice – a Trinitarian method for personal renewal. For each attribute, we explored the inner attitude required (mindset), the intentional goal to pursue (aim), and the concrete actions that bring these qualities to life (practice). Imagine consciously choosing to listen deeply before responding, extending fairness to someone who seems undeserving, remaining reliable even when others aren't, actively seeking reconciliation rather than winning arguments, or practicing boundless love toward difficult people. These aren't just nice theories but transformative practices with profound scriptural foundations.
Perhaps most fascinating was discovering how these Good Shepherd qualities resonate across different faith traditions – from Buddhist compassion teachings to Islamic mercy principles and Hindu concepts of interconnectedness. As St. Thomas Aquinas noted, "Truth cannot contradict truth." What if these shared values point toward fundamental human truths that transcend our differences? Consider which attribute speaks most deeply to you right now, and try consciously practicing it this week. How might that simple choice create ripples of positive change in your relationships and help you discover unexpected common ground with others? Join us to explore these powerful pathways to renewal.
Chapters
1. Introduction to the Good Shepherd (00:00:00)
2. Seven Attributes of the Shepherd (00:02:30)
3. The MAP Framework Explained (00:05:27)
4. Mindset: Thinking Like the Shepherd (00:07:15)
5. Aim: Setting Intentions Like Christ (00:11:48)
6. Practice: Putting Principles Into Action (00:14:09)
7. Common Ground Across World Religions (00:16:32)
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