The Gate for the Sheep
This week we are dwelling in the Word and exploring the seven “I Am” statements of Jesus. Today’s reading is John 10:1-10, where Jesus declares that he is gate for the sheep.
Here’s a few thoughts to guide your reading of the Word. It’s a relatively unflattering reality that the Bible often compares human beings to sheep—who are not necessarily the sharpest tools in the shed. People need protection, guidance, and constant care, just like sheep.
In Jesus’ time, sheep would spend the day out in the pasture and then be gathered together in an enclosure for safety and protection. Only the shepherd could enter through the gate or opening of this enclosure, because any thieves, robbers, or imposters would be instantly spotted and driven away by the shepherd if they tried to waltz through the front door.
Jesus knew that Israel’s leaders (both civil and religious) weren’t being very good shepherds. They were acting more like thieves and robbers than shepherds who genuinely cared about the flock. Jesus is telling us that he actually has our best interest in mind. He is the gate we need to pass through to find safety, nourishment, and protection.
Jesus wants us to have life, and have it to the full (John 10:10). The analogy of the gate helps us understand that life to the full means entering through Christ and dwelling in his presence.
Here’s a few thoughts to guide your reading of the Word. It’s a relatively unflattering reality that the Bible often compares human beings to sheep—who are not necessarily the sharpest tools in the shed. People need protection, guidance, and constant care, just like sheep.
In Jesus’ time, sheep would spend the day out in the pasture and then be gathered together in an enclosure for safety and protection. Only the shepherd could enter through the gate or opening of this enclosure, because any thieves, robbers, or imposters would be instantly spotted and driven away by the shepherd if they tried to waltz through the front door.
Jesus knew that Israel’s leaders (both civil and religious) weren’t being very good shepherds. They were acting more like thieves and robbers than shepherds who genuinely cared about the flock. Jesus is telling us that he actually has our best interest in mind. He is the gate we need to pass through to find safety, nourishment, and protection.
Jesus wants us to have life, and have it to the full (John 10:10). The analogy of the gate helps us understand that life to the full means entering through Christ and dwelling in his presence.