The Good Shepherd

The Good Shepherd John 10:11-18 Context 1. 2 Miracles Sandwich John 10 • • Jesus heals a man born blind – John 9 Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead – John 11 2. These miracles draw out the sinful ugliness of Jewish leadership – their hardness blinds them to the One who heals the blind; it deadens them to the One who raises the dead. 3. Between these miracles, Jesus makes some staggering claims, one of which we’ll study today – “I am the good Shepherd.” The Good Shepherd’s Identity 1. In Contrast to Non-Shepherds (10:1-10) • Thieves and Robbers – these “strangers” avoid the door altogether (v. 1-2, see especially 10:9) • Hireling – these are the self-concerned; they may be less evil, but prove equally dangerous (v. 12-13) 2. Rich Old Testament Metaphor 1. Ancient Metaphor: Genesis 48:15; Psalm 23 2. Hopeful Metaphor: Isaiah 40:10-11; Ezekiel 34:2324; The Good Shepherd’s Activity 1. The Good Shepherd Lays Down His Life (10:11) • • 5x Jesus uses the phrase “lay down” Present – Jesus was in the process of obeying God’s commission; “the good shepherd is laying down …” 2. The Good Shepherd Knows • • • 5x in chapter 10 Jesus uses this word “to know personally” Jesus knows his flock eternally (v. 15) Jesus knows so that He can be known (v. 14; 16) 3. The Good Shepherd Gives • • The Good Shepherd gives eternal life The Good Shepherd gives eternal security Lessons 1. John 10 makes the death/resurrection of Jesus history’s central event. 2. John 10 elevates the knowledge of Christ to a primary concern – from the knowledge of Christ, we derive salvation, safety, security, and purpose. 3. John 10 demonstrates the evangelistic heart of Christ – “I have other sheep.”