[:en]The Shepherd and His Flock (vs. 1-21)
Jesus said: “I am the gate for the sheep” (v. 7) The function of the gate is to provide protection. It is also the way to ensure safety and security. Jesus is the gate because it is the only way of access to God that provides salvation to mankind. A thief takes life but Jesus gives life. He gives us abundant and eternal life overflowing with love, forgiveness and assurance. (v. 10)
Jesus said: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. A hired man tends the sheep for money but the shepherd does it with sacrificial love. (vs. 12)
Jesus came not only to save the Jews but also the Gentiles. His mission was to die for the sins of the world (v. 16). His love is unlimited and His blessings bountiful.
The Unbelief of the Jews (vs. 22-42)
Antiochus Epiphanes defiled the Temple by sacrificing a pig on the altar of burnt offering. The temple was cleansed under Judas Maccabees in 164 BC. Hanukkah commemorated the cleansing of the Temple by celebrating the Feast of Dedication.
Then came the Feast of Dedication at Jerusalem. Jesus was walking in Solomon’s Colonnade, a roofed walkway supported by large stone columns inside the Temple courtyard. (vs. 22-23). The Jews wanted to know if Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah who could save them and drive out the Romans (v. 24)
Jesus declared His divinity when He said: “I and the Father are one” (v. 30) He claimed to be God, so the Jews accused Him of blasphemy and began to stone Him. (v. 33)
In Psalm 82:6. the Israelite rulers and judges are called gods. In the Scripture, God called Israelite leaders gods because they were agents of God’s revelation and will. So Jesus is asking them that how could it be blasphemy if He called Himself the Son of God when He was set apart to be sent into the world by His father. (vs. 35-36).
After that, Jesus went back across the Jordan to the place where John had been baptizing in the early days. Many came to Him and believed Him. (vs. 40-42)
Summary:
- Jesus is the gate for the sheep. Whoever enters through Him will be saved (v. 9). He provides salvation and gives eternal life to those who believe in Him. Do you want to believe in Him and accept Him as your personal Savior?
- Jesus is the good shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep (v. 11) He came to save both the Jews and the Gentiles. He sacrificed His life to redeem us from eternal damnation. As a shepherd, He gives protection, provision and guidance. Are you willing to let Him lead you and guide you?
- Jesus and the Father are one. He has a unique relationship of oneness with the Father. He performed miracles in His Father’s name. Have you experienced miracles from Him in your life?
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