The Good Shepherd in John 10

Read John chapter 10

Introduction: John 10 speaks to us of Jesus being the good shepherd, and how that their is only one way to enter the sheepfold, that is through the doorway provided by the good shepherd.  In this chapter, Jesus explains the relationship between Himself and His followers, using the example of a shepherd and his flock. This chapter can be divided into three main sections of verses, each with its own unique message to the people of the day, as well as a message for us today in year 2024.

I. The Good Shepherd and His Sheep (John 10:1-6)
In these verses, Jesus describes Himself as the good shepherd who enters the sheepfold by the gate, unlike thieves and robbers who try climb in by another way. He explains that the sheep recognize His voice and they will follow Him because He has their best interest at heart, while they do not recognize the voice of strangers who seek to use and take advantage of them. Psalm 23:1 speaks about the Lord being our shepherd, which relates to the theme of Jesus being the Good Shepherd. Ezekiel 34:11-12 describes God searching for His sheep, similar to how Jesus cares for His followers. And Isaiah 40:11 talks about God tending to His flock like a shepherd, further emphasizing the shepherd imagery used by Jesus.

II. The Good Shepherd Lays Down His Life for the Sheep (John 10:7-18)
Jesus continues to explain the heart of the Good Shepherd with an example, stating that He is the gate for the sheep and that those who enter through Him will be saved. He compares Himself with the hired hand who does not care for the sheep and runs away when danger comes. Jesus makes the declaration that He lays down His life for the sheep willingly and has the authority to take it up again. In 1 Peter 2:25, the Bible speaks about Jesus being our Shepherd and Overseer, similar to the role He describes in this section. And Hebrews 13:20 refers to Jesus as the great Shepherd who was brought back from the dead, highlighting His sacrifice and resurrection. Finally in Matthew 20:28, the Bible talks about Jesus giving His life as a ransom for many, which relates to His willingness to lay down His life for His sheep.

III. The Reaction of the Jews and Jesus’ Response (John 10:19-42)
The Jews are divided in their opinion of Jesus, with some accusing Him of being demon possessed and others questioning how a demon possessed man could perform such miracles. Jesus answers them by pointing to His works as evidence of His identity and unity with the Father. He also sheds some light on his authority, stating that no one can snatch His sheep out of His hand.

Some cross reference verses for John 10:19-42

• Matthew 12:24-28 – This passage describes the Pharisees accusing Jesus of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul, similar to the accusations in this section.
• John 5:36 – This verse talks about the works Jesus does as evidence of His identity, which He also mentions in His response to the Jews.
• Romans 8:38-39 – This passage speaks about nothing being able to separate us from the love of God, which relates to the security of the sheep in Jesus’ hand.

Conclusion: In John 10, Jesus presents Himself as the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep and lays down His life for them, as well as gives eternal life to all who trust and believe. This chapter points out the importance of recognizing Jesus’ voice and following Him, and the assurance of eternal life that comes from being in His care. The chapter challenges believers everywhere to examine our relationship with Jesus and to trust in His guidance and protection as our Shepherd, trust Jesus my friend, and you will never have to look back on a life of regrets.