More Than A Shepherd

John 10:1-21

In Jesus we find the perfect life with the perfect Shepherd.

Jesus introduces the concept of shepherding as teaching tool. (1-6)

Jesus teaches how to find the perfect life. (7-10)

Jesus teaches about the perfect Shepherd. (11-21)

This section of Scripture is centered around the subject of sheep and shepherding. Take a few minutes to brainstorm about shepherds and shepherding (Bible dictionaries and web searches might prove helpful). What is the role of a shepherd? What are the characteristics needed to be a good shepherd? What is the relationship like between and shepherd and his flock? Where do the sheep sleep; how are they kept safe; how are they fed and watered?p

1. Read verses 1-6. What does Jesus say here about shepherding and sheep? What point is Jesus making? Why do you think the people were confused?

2. Read verses 7-10. Who does Jesus describe himself to be, and why do you think he uses this illustration? Who is the thief in this illustration? What is the result of entering by the “Door”?

3. Read verses 11-13. Who does Jesus describe himself to be in these verses? Compare who Jesus describes himself to be in verse 7 and verse 11. How do these descriptions complement each other? Why do you think Jesus uses these two different descriptions? What is Jesus’ main idea in verses 11-13?

4. Read verses 14-21. Who does Jesus describe himself to be? Why do you think He says this again? What do you learn about Jesus in these verses? Why do these things matter? How did the Jews respond to Jesus’ teaching?

5. So what? Do you believe that you have an abundant life as stated in verse 10? Why or why not? How does embracing Jesus as both the “Door” and the “Good Shepherd” help us to have an abundant life? What could you do to experience a more abundant life?