I AM #3 – The Gate

“I AM the Gate; whoever enters through Me will be saved.  He will come in and go out, and find pasture.”  John 10:9

SETTING

Who was there?

Participants:               Jesus

Observers:                  The Twelve and the Jews (including some Pharisees)

Where did the events take place?

In the Temple Courts in Jerusalem

When did they take place?

During the Feast of the Tabernacles (in the autumn after the harvest)

What took place?

After interrogating the blind man whom Jesus healed, the Pharisees threw the man out into the street.  Jesus found him and helped him receive his spiritual sight, too.  Some Pharisees overheard their discussion, and perceived that Jesus had slandered them.  The Lord responded figuratively by describing Himself as the Gate and the Good Shepherd.

SUBJECT

In order to follow this story, it’s important to understand the cast of characters:

The Gate                     Jesus

Sheep                          Believers

Thieves                       False teachers and messiahs

Good Shepherd          Jesus (and church pastors)

Sheepfold                   The Church

Jesus is the Gate to the Church comprised of all those who have accepted Him as their Savior.  The only way to enter the Church is through Jesus.  As the Gate to the Church, Jesus:

1. Extends salvation to all who enter through Him

2. Offers fellowship to those who have come inside.

3. Provides protection from those who don’t belong within.

4. Grants provision for all our needs (find pasture).

SUMMARY

Beware of false teachers and messiahs who enter by climbing in some other way.  Their purpose is to steal, kill and destroy the fullness of our life in Christ.  Jesus tells us to listen to the voice.  We will be know the Shepherd’s voice.  If we hear the stranger’s voice, then “don’t listen,” “never follow,” and “run away.”

PRAYER

Lord, give me ears to hear and respond to Your voice alone.  Help me to distinguish between Your voice and the stranger’s voice.  Amen