John 10
John Chapter 10, Explained
John 10 is where Jesus calls Himself the good shepherd. He contrasts the true shepherd, who enters by the door and whose sheep know His voice, with thieves and hired hands who do not care for the flock. He knows His sheep by name, and they follow Him because they recognize the One who loves them.
The heart of the chapter is sacrifice. The good shepherd, Jesus says, lays down His life for the sheep, and no one takes it from Him, for He lays it down of His own accord. He promises His sheep abundant life and unbreakable security, holding them so firmly that no one can snatch them out of His hand.
Key verses from John 10
“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”
John 10:10
“I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.”
John 10:11
“I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.”
John 10:14
The main point
John 10 is about a shepherd who knows His sheep by name and lays down His life to give them abundant, secure life.
How John 10 points to Jesus
Jesus is the good shepherd of this chapter in person. He came that we might have life to the full, He laid down His life for the sheep, and He holds His own so securely that nothing can ever pluck them from His hand.
Want to sit with this chapter for yourself? Open The Living Bread to read John 10 in full, ask any question about it, and pray with others, free.