Takeaways
John 10 is a continuing conversation from John 9 – chapter and verses came later and were not inspired.
The man who was healed from blindness chose to worship. Some Pharisees were there too, and when they asked about whether they were blind themselves, it’s possible some were concerned about their spiritual condition.
Why do the listeners not understand? Because they cannot hear His word, because they are not of God.
As the conversation continues, Jesus distinguishes between three people/types of people:
The Sheep
- Hear His voice
- KNOW His voice
- Are called BY NAME
- Follow the Shepherd
- Will be regathered from the enemies’ attack
- Will not be afraid any longer.
The Shepherd
- Calls the sheep, BY NAME
- Goes before them
- Sheep will follow Him
- Is the Door by which the sheep enter
- Came that they may have abundant life
- Leads sheep to a green pasture
- Not just any shepherd, a GOOD shepherd
- Lays down His life for the sheep*
- Promises to gather the sheep who have gone astray.
- Will raise up other shepherds to tend to them.
The Thief, Robber, Stranger, Strangers, Hirelings etc.
- Come in from some other way
- Calls the sheep but not by name
- Is not a shepherd
- False leaders that come into the sheepfold mimicking truth
- Leading the sheep astray
- Come only to steal and destroy
- Abandon the sheep at the first sign of danger
- Scatters the flock
- Benefits OFF the sheep, not benefiting the sheep.
*Why does He lay down His life for the sheep? Not only for His love for the sheep, but because of His love for the FATHER. We are the beneficiaries.
KNOWING – commit to “growing in our knowing” of God. This will help us have more discernment when robbers/thieves come amongst us.
AFFECTION – reflect upon where our affections are. Its growth is dependent upon God. He builds it in us – circumcising our hearts. The process is sometimes painful but worth it.
If we have the same audacious love for the Father, modeled by Jesus, and cultivated by continually getting to know Him more, we will naturally follow His voice and obey Him.
Reflection Prompters
1. Go back through the passage two or three times this week. Create (or add to) three lists of distinguishing characteristics of the Sheep, the Shepherd, and the Thieves/Robbers/Hirelings.
2. How do you hear God’s voice in your life? (What you hear should always align with what His word says.)
3. How do you feel about the Good Shepherd knowing you BY NAME? In what personal ways does He show Himself real to you?
4. Take some time to examine your affections. When you think about what you love most, be honest with yourself. Where is Jesus on that list? Do you have some affection for people or things that are overdone/misplaced?
5. Truths to pray over, meditate on, and write out:
- Jesus knows me by name.
- The Good Shepherd will take care of me. I can trust Him.
- Cause my affection for you to increase, Lord.
- Write out Deuteronomy 30:6
- (From the worship set) I need Thee every hour.
(from the worship set) I need Thee every hour
