THE GOOD SHEPHERD
Read John 10:1-18
Questions for discussion:
1) At
night, sheep were gathered into a sheep pen to be protected them from thieves,
harsh weather, or wild animals. The
sheep pens were caves, sheds, or open areas surrounded by walls made of stones
or branches. The shepherd would sleep in
the pen with the sheep. Just as a
shepherd cares for his sheep, Jesus is the “Good Shepherd” who cares for His
flock (those who follow Him). In verse
1, Jesus identifies the one who climbs into the sheep pen without using the
proper entrance as a “thief and a robber.”
The thief is cunning and seeks to avoid detection, while the robber is
aggressive and may use force or violence.
a. Who is the thief and robber ____________________________________?
b. Are you protected from the thief and robber _______________________?
c. How have you protected yourself _______________________________?
d. Are you protected everyday ____________________________________?
e. Why
or why not _____________________________________________?
2) In
contrast to the thief and robber is the shepherd, who “enters by the
gate.” The word “shepherd” (poimen)
is derived from the root that means, “to protect.” Jesus declares, “I am the gate for the
sheep.” Jesus is using the word “gate”
figuratively. Just as a gate provides
entrance or access into the sheep pen, Jesus is the way of entrance or access
to the Father. Jesus says, “Whoever
enters through Me will be saved.” The word “saved” (sozo) can refer to
physical deliverance or spiritual salvation.
As a shepherd provides physical protection, so Jesus provides spiritual
salvation.
a. Have you ever entered the “Gate” that leads to salvation _____________?
b. If so, how did you do this ______________________________________?
c. What
happened in your life ____________________________________?
3) No
one enters God’s family unless they go through the “Gate.” In verse 9, we read that those who do enter
God’s family will not only receive salvation into Heaven, but will also “go in
and go out, and find pasture.” The sheep
entering God’s flock, through Jesus, will receive salvation, life, and
blessing. Jesus declares, “I have come
so they may have life, and have it to the fullest!” He is speaking of life in full measure. Jesus wants to give us an abundant life in
overflow proportions!
a. What are some examples of God’s abundance _____________________?
b. Is His abundance in the present, future, or both _____________________?
c. Why
do you think this ________________________________________?
Closing Comments:
In the first part (10:1-9), Christ is the “gate” or “door”
of the sheep pen; in the second part (