Scripture reading: John 10:7-10

Today, we explore the third "I Am" statement of Jesus found in the Gospel of John.

John 10:7-10
⁷ Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. ⁸ All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them.  ⁹ I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. ¹⁰ The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

This statement reveals Jesus' role as our ultimate access to God and abundant life.

Jesus made this declaration during a discussion about sheep and shepherds, illustrating His care and protection for His followers. He contrasts Himself with false leaders who seek to exploit and harm the sheep, emphasizing that He alone provides genuine security and salvation.

In biblical times, sheep were cared for by shepherds who led them to safe pastures and protected them from predators. Shepherds would often lie across the entrance of the sheepfold at night, serving as the door to guard against thieves and animals.

Jesus uses this imagery to portray Himself as the sole access point to God and eternal life. He is not only the Shepherd who leads and protects but also the Door through which His followers enter into salvation and spiritual safety.

John 14:6
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

Jesus emphasizes that He is the only way to salvation and eternal life (John 10:9). Just as the shepherd guards the sheepfold, Jesus guards His followers from spiritual harm and provides them with abundant life.

Jesus contrasts Himself with false teachers who seek to deceive and exploit. He warns against following anyone who does not lead us closer to Him and His truth.

Matthew 7:15-20
¹⁵ “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. ¹⁶ By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? ¹⁷ Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. ¹⁸ A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. ¹⁹ Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ²⁰ Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.

Discussion Questions:

1. Considering Jesus' declaration in John 10:7-10 where He describes Himself as the door of the sheep, how does understanding Jesus as the door contrast with false leaders and their intentions?
2. In what ways have you experienced the protection and guidance of Jesus in your life?          

Jesus promises abundant life to those who enter through Him (John 10:10). This abundant life includes not only eternal salvation but also a life marked by spiritual fulfillment, purpose, and joy.

Through Jesus, we are reconciled to God and can enjoy a personal relationship with Him. This relationship provides us with the nourishment and sustenance needed to thrive spiritually.

John 17:3
Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.

Discussion Question:
What does abundant life in Jesus mean to you? How can you experience and share this abundant life with others in your community?

How you can actively live in the abundant life Jesus promises:
- Spend time in prayer and studying God's Word to grow closer to Him.
- Introduce others to Jesus as the Door and inviting them to experience His abundant life.
- Care for others in your community, guiding them toward Jesus and protecting them from spiritual harm.

CONCLUSION

As we conclude, let's remember that Jesus, as the Door of the Sheep, offers us exclusive access to God and abundant life. He invites us to enter into His care, protection, and provision. May we continue to follow Him faithfully, trusting in His guidance and sharing His love with those around us.

Individual Reflection

1. Take a moment to reflect on how has understanding Jesus as the Door of the Sheep deepened your appreciation for His role in your life.

2. What practical steps will you take to enter more fully into His care and to share His abundant life with others.

Closing Prayer

"Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for revealing Jesus to us as the Door of the Sheep. We are grateful for His protection, guidance, and the abundant life He offers. Help us, Lord, to enter through Him and to follow Him faithfully.

Guide us as we seek to live in the fullness of Your love and to share this love with others. May Your Spirit empower us to be faithful witnesses of Jesus, the Door, in our communities and beyond.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."