Tim's Intro

Following my brother's introduction (which was from a historical perspective - his specialty), I would like to explain more about the purpose of this blog. The best way to do this, I believe, is to explain the title - The Shepherd's Goad. This term is found in Ecclesiastes 12:11 - "The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd."

A goad by definition is "a pointed rod used to urge on an animal". A goad is a tool used to guide oxen which were pulling a plough or a cart as well as to round up cattle. Solomon compares the words of the wise to a goad, as those words are to urge, guide, prod, and provoke people into the right path: the place of safety. A goad can cause pain and injure, in fact, one of Israel's judges used an ox goad to kill 600 Philistines (Shamgar in Judges 3:31). The goad is in the hands of our one Wise Shepherd, Christ, and He will use it to either urge, guide, prod, or provoke His sheep; or to kill those who would devour the sheep. His words may cause pain or injure His people, but the goad's design is always for our guidance into the right path.

It has been the desire of whatever ministry I undertake, for people to be provoked to study the Scriptures and not to simply accept what I say, or what other men say, as fact. After a speaking or teaching engagement, I was encouraged to hear that people went home to check God's word for themselves rather than if someone said "Good message/lesson." That desire remains unchanged and I hope, as we use this method of communication, that whoever may read will do the same. Let the Chief Shepherd's words urge you, prod you, provoke you, injure you, and guide you into the right path.

Some difficult, unpopular subject matter will be discussed in light of what God's word teaches. At times, the subjects may cause anger or division. This should be no surprise as Christ Himself warned us of this fact (Luke 12:51-53). Although this experience may be painful for my brother and me, and even some others, "Remember now thy Creator...in the day when...the grinders cease because they are few."

Sincerely,
Tim