People sometimes talk about a ‘passion for souls’ as being essential in one who would work for Christ; but this is not enough. Nothing less than a passion for Christ Himself will do to fit one for labour for souls…
“Lovest thou Me?” comes before “Feed my lambs” … He will not entrust the care of His flock to any who are not loyal to Him and do not love Him.
The Master bade Peter FEED the lambs and TEND the sheep; that is, give them all shepherd-care – love, protection, guidance, provision. The most important and responsible work in all this world is caring for souls … we dare not do this work carelessly … we must be faithful.
(J. R. Miller)
"Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and you will call him Immanuel."
Isaiah 7: 14