John 10:9-11 –“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.”
Observation –
Jesus is taking to the Pharisees using imagery of sheep which would be familiar. Jesus is the door and is the only way to enter the Kingdom and be saved. Anyone other than Jesus or coming in the name of Jesus is a destroyer. Jesus provides pasture for his sheep and those who follow him have an abundant life. Jesus, the good shepherd, sacrifices his life for his sheep.
Application –
Jesus is the only way of salvation and reconciliation to the Father. I must listen to the voice of the good shepherd and follow Jesus being careful not to allow the sounds of the world to catch my ear. If it is not the voice of Jesus, it is something that wants to lead me astray from Jesus and the life I am intended to have by following Him. Through the grace of God, Jesus has given me my greatest need in His sacrificial death and resurrection that brought me from death to life. Jesus is the good shepherd who provides our food, rest and shelter.
Prayer –
Father,
Thank you for your love, grace and mercy you have for me in sending Jesus to lay down His life for mine. Let the Holy Spirit lead me to listen and follow Jesus so I can make disciples who will make disciples for Christ.