The poem contrasts the exploitative prosperity hirelings, who lure the flock with promises of wealth only to shear them for profit and abandon them to danger, with Jesus, the good shepherd. Their greedy traps fail, leaving souls vulnerable, while Christ offers selfless protection and guidance, laying down His life freely. His true voice leads to a safe, eternal pasture, far beyond their crumbling schemes.

They herd with rods of glittering bait,
Prosperity’s hirelings, smooth and sly,
“Follow us, your wealth’s assured,”
But their pens are traps where fleece runs dry.

Their voices boom, their hands collect,
Shearing flocks for private gain,
When wolves draw near, they flee the field,
Leaving lambs to storm and pain.

“I am the shepherd,” Christ declares,
A voice that knows each wandering soul,
No fee to join, no gold to give,
He lays down life to make us whole.

Their gates rust shut, their boasts unwind,
While Jesus leads through vale and strife,
His call rings true, His staff holds firm,
A pasture green with endless life.