August 15. 1678. a Visional Parable of the Sheep and a Wolf: Or, the Thorny Passage.
The sermon illustrates the journey of believers through trials, guided by the protective hand of the Shepherd into a place of safety and community.
Jane Lead preaches about the imagery of sheep being hunted and guided by a shepherd, symbolizing believers facing trials and obstacles in life but finding refuge and safety in the care of the Good Shepherd. The sheep in the strait lane with thorns represent the challenges believers encounter, where they may suffer losses but are ultimately led to a place of abundance and peace by the Shepherd. The vision emphasizes the importance of trusting in the guidance and protection of the Shepherd amidst life's difficulties and uncertainties.
Text
This Morning there appeared to me some Sheep, that were hunted out of their Fold, by a fierce Beast that sought for Prey, but they got into a strait Lane for hiding: but it was grown over with such bushy Thorns, that oftentimes the Sheep were stopped from passing through. The Thorns taking hold of their Wool, which they suffered the loss of, for fear of the Pursuer. And at the end of the Lane, there stood one with a Shepherd's Crook, and caught one by the Horns, and guided that Sheep along, and the rest, which were but few in Number followed into a strong Walled Pasture, where many more Sheep were, feeding as without danger and fear. Many Tents I saw there also. This Vision doth shew it's meaning.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Introduction to the vision of the sheep
- Description of the fierce beast
- The significance of the strait lane
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II
- The role of thorns in the passage
- The loss of wool as a metaphor for struggles
- The importance of perseverance
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III
- The shepherd's guidance
- The transition to safety in the strong walled pasture
- The community of sheep and the absence of fear
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IV
- Interpretation of the vision
- Lessons on faith and trust
- The promise of divine protection
Key Quotes
“This Vision doth shew it's meaning.” — Jane Lead
“The Thorns taking hold of their Wool, which they suffered the loss of, for fear of the Pursuer.” — Jane Lead
“Many more Sheep were, feeding as without danger and fear.” — Jane Lead
Application Points
- Trust in God's guidance during difficult times.
- Recognize and overcome the obstacles that hinder your faith.
- Seek community and support among fellow believers for strength.