Pastor Tyrone S. Hillman, Jr
John 10:1-21
Normally without the loving care of a shepherd, sheep would perish without provision, direction, or protection. But Jesus as our Good Shepherd ensured with his loving sacrifice that he leads us personally to provision, goes before us into a deeper relationship with God, and guarantees us safe access to eternal life and abundant life.
Point #1: He leads us out personally to provision by calling our name. Verse 10:3 To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.
Point #2: He goes before us collectively into deeper intimacy with God. Verse 10:4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.
Point #3: He guarantees us safe access to eternal life and abundant life. Verse 10:9 I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
Journaling Prompts: What does it mean for us to be part of the Jesus’ flock? What is the meaning of Christ death as a shepherd? What meaning did Christ attach to his own death?