10 John – The Good Shepherd

By Richard

This is the well known passage about Jesus being the Good Shepherd. In its familiarity we must be careful not to miss some important points that Jesus is trying to make.

1. He’s the Good Shepherd:

The phrase “I am the Good Shepherd” is repeated twice, indicating emphasis. Jesus explains that in the goodness of his leading he is prepared to put our needs before his own and is willing to sacrifice himself for our good. We need to absorb the huge truth that Jesus puts us before himself. He’s on our side. He’s more than willing to die for us. We tend to view ourselves as being in “conflict” with God. I’m a sinner and God is highly displeased with me, and in quite a sulk about it too. My job is somehow to live this amazingly perfect life and then, just maybe, God will love me. NO, Jesus loves me as I am, a silly and often brainless sheep with a tendency to wander off. He longs to lead me with his gentle and cheerful voice. His focus is not on our weakness but on our safety and health. What a radically different picture of God than the one we normally have.

2. He’s the gate:

Jesus also says that he’s the gate to eternal life. He’s the way through which we gain access to the safety of the sheepfold. This is one of those passages that should cause us to rethink our ideas on hell. We’re invited to hear Christ’s voice, follow him and enter into the safety of the sheepfold. Hell is staying where we are. Out in the cold. Out in the open. Vulnerable to the “Destroyer and thief” that will destroy all those who are not safely held by God.

Jesus’ strong point to the Jews is that this amazing offer of salvation was there for the taking, but they must choose to enter God’s kingdom or stay alone in the field. But the choice is not neutral. Christ has shown us by word and action that hs is God. He defeated the dark wolf on the cross. He lovingly and gently calls, but never demands that we come.

How tragic, how great the destruction, for those who fail to hear his voice and follow the Good Shepherd through the gate and into the safely of the sheepfold.