John 10:11-18 – Jesus refused to flee when our endangered souls were in dire need. We marvel at the Good Shepherd who laid His life down for us on the cross to save us from our sinful wanderings.
Overview
- When Moses requested a name for the God speaking from the burning bush, he heard “I AM” (Exodus 3:14).
- Jesus enraged the Jewish leaders when He shockingly said, “Before Abraham was, I am” (John 8:58).
- The Apostle John recorded seven “I Am” statements from the ministry of Jesus (John 6:35; 8:12; 10:7, 11; 11:25; 14:6; 15:1).
Jesus’ Teaching
- Jesus would rather lay His life down as our Shepherd than allow harm to the sheep (10:11).
- Sheep are endangered by vicious wolves (sinister threats) and uncommitted hirelings (opportunistic ministers) (10:12-13).
- Those who belong to Jesus know Him on a profoundly personal level (10:14-15).
- Jesus is gathering one flock united among both Jews and Gentiles (10:16).
- God’s love for us is so deep that He delighted in Jesus’ sacrifice (10:17).
- Our Shepherd’s sacrifice would have been unhelpful if He hadn’t defeated all threats in the process (10:18).
Our Response
- Place your faith in the Shepherd who wanted to die in your place.
- Clarify whether or not you belong to the flock of God.
- Trust that your Shepherd’s leading is worth your following.
- Align yourself with undershepherds and sheep that seek to imitate Jesus.
Travis Agnew serves as the Lead Pastor of Rocky Creek Church in Greenville, SC. His most recent book is Just (About) Married.
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