1. Jesus is going to address the Pharisees blindness
“Very truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep.” Verses 1-2
A. The main reason for this teaching comes from Jesus’ healing of the blind man
2. Jesus makes an important distinction
“The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.” Verse 3 -5
A. Jesus illustrates by using a communal stockyard as an example.
3. The Pharisees failed to understand His point
“Jesus used this figure of speech, but the Pharisees did not understand what he was telling them.” Verse 6
A. The Pharisees believed they were spiritual guides of the people but were thieves and robbers
4. Jesus uses this “I AM” to illustrate salvation, security and satisfaction
“Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture.” Verses 7-9
A. Any who enter through Jesus will be saved. “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6
5. Jesus makes a startling comparison
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Verses 10-13
A. Jesus points out how He is different than the Pharisees. The Pharisees, (hirelings) will not defend the sheep and think the flock exists only for their benefit
6. The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep
"The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.” Verses 17-18
A. Jesus speaks of His sacrifice on the cross for the sheep. He willingly gives up his life for the sheep
7. The Pharisees’ typical response
“The Jews who heard these words were again divided. Many of them said, “He is demon-possessed and raving mad. Why listen to him?” But others said, “These are not the sayings of a man possessed by a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?” Verses 19-21
A. Like it is today, Jesus is shown as the dividing line of humanity. People either accept or reject Jesus as Lord and Savior
