John 10, Part 3

Scripture: John 10:11-18

Observation: Jesus tells the crowd that, not only is He the gate through which they must enter, but He is also the Good Shepherd, good because He not only risks His life for His sheep, He lays down His life for them (v.11). This is in contrast to a hired hand, who will watch the sheep but not put himself in danger for them (v.12,13). A hired hand cares only about himself and his pay, and doesn't care if wolves (false teachers) come into the midst of the sheep and carry them away. Jesus, as Owner of the sheep, loves them and knows each just as the Father and He know each other (v.14-15). Jesus tells them He is bringing other sheep into the fold (Gentiles) so that there will be one flock united in Him. For these He will not only lay down His life, but He also has the power to take it up again (v.18).

Application: Jesus has not been simply "put in charge" of the sheep. If this were so, He would be like the hired hand, whose interests only go so far, and who isn't willing to risk himself on account of someone else's property. No, Jesus is the Good Shepherd, our owner, who died for us and purchased us with His precious blood. Only our Creator would be willing to go as far as Jesus did, because He loves us. How can we repay His love? We can't; but we can imitate Him as much as possible, live our lives totally dedicated to Him, and become His servants, ready and willing to serve Him in all He asks.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, what You did at Calvary has no equal, then or now. You saved humanity like no one else could. Your love surpasses all understanding, because You knew You were rejected, yet You lay down Your life anyway. I thank You Lord Jesus, and I want the world to see and know how much I appreciate what You've done. Help me to be more like You, that You may be glorified. In Your Name I pray, Amen.