I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. John 10:9-11
I continue my study of John and today I focus on John 10:7-18, where Jesus patiently teaches those listening to Him as He refers to Himself as the Good Shepherd and those who follow Him - His sheep. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: Jesus once again reinforces His authority by sharing "[t]ruly, truly" in v7. Those listening did not understand what Jesus was saying in vv1-6, so Jesus has to reinforce that despite how some may not understand, He is sharing Truth because He is Lord of All and all scripture is God-breathed and perfect (2 Timothy 3:16). Building on what I posted a couple of days ago, no one is saved (and find pasture or provision, including rest) except through Jesus as He is the door to salvation (vv7, 9). In contrast to Jewish leadership and Satan, Jesus comes to give life and to give it abundantly both now (freedom from sin) and for eternity in Heaven through salvation (v10). Jesus is Good at being our leader v11 because He sacrifices Himself for His people. Those who follow the Good Shepherd know Him and He knows them just as the Father and the Son know each other (v15). Vv17-18 shares how the Father loves the Son because He not only sacrifices His life for God's people but also is able to rise again (Easter). Jesus does those of His own accord (ability) and authority because He has been granted authority by the Father.
- What do we learn from the text about people?: God's people in Israel are the sheep but the Jewish leadership who led have not led well and are referred to as thieves and robbers (v8), serving only themselves and not following God's instructions for how to lead. In particular, the thief (Satan) is a false god and following him leads to eternal condemnation (v10). There are many who claim to lead or claim be a or are seen as a deity, but there is only One True God and Good Shepherd (vv12-13). V16 shares how there are others in His fold but not in "this fold" (v16). This refers to how the believing Jews are of this fold but soon Jesus will be sending out the disciples to the Gentiles and to all parts of the world as part of the Great Commission and these that are not of this fold will listen to Him. Jesus is the Good Shepherd over all who believe and follow Him - one flock and one shepherd.
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid following false gods and evil influences. Claim the promise of abundant (and eternal life) through Jesus. Follow the example of the sheep who know the Good Shepherd and His voice. Follow and please Jesus as Your #1 priority.
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves. You ARE the Good Shepherd! Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of a God that cares and provides in such a way. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
