John 10:7-10 – Protection and provision

Having established that as a shepherd, Jesus is familiar with us His sheep, He turned to make another one of His “I am” claims. He said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep.” Notice that He did not say I am the door of the sheepfold but, “I am the door of the sheep.” In saying so, Jesus had distinguish Himself as the God-ordained means whereby sheep or true believers could enter into communion with the Father. The Pharisees and scribes who came before Him were self-acclaimed teachers of the laws. Their laws, instead of providing freedom and access to God, put the people under shackles and bonds. Jesus referred to them as thieves and robbers. What they did had failed to usher the people into a relationship with God. Instead, they had robbed the people of the peace, joy, and the fulfillment of a fruitful relationship with God. The word “all” in verse 8, wasn’t referring to the genuine prophets and leaders of Israel, people such as Moses, David, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Nehemiah, and the list of God’s genuine Old Testament servants. Here the word “all” is used in a limited sense to refer to the Pharisees and the scribes. People who stole the joy of true living. .

Jesus emphasized again in verse 9 saying “I am the door.” In order to enter into the security of God’s community, one has to enter through Him. There is no other entrance into God’s community. And those that enter through Him are not only saved but also safe. Believers who come to God through Him can also find free excess to the pasture He alone can provide. His provision is always satisfying. Money and material things may bring temporary happiness, but not the joy of having a satisfying relationship with God.

Verse 10 is one of the most quoted verses. It says, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” In this oft quoted verse, Christ warns us about the thief that comes to steal, kill and destroy. This verse also encourages us to learn how to distinguish between genuine and spurious servants of God. The phony teachers, inspired by the devil, the arch-enemy of God, would seek to steal and kill and ultimately destroy. Following their diabolical teachings will unwittingly cause the relationship of genuine believers with God to be destroyed. It behooves us as believers of Christ to be discerning. We need to be aware of the proliferation of teachings that desensitize us to the voice of Jesus, our Great Shepherd. It is always better to stay in the proven secure fold of a trustworthy under-shepherd of God. Besides, we must also take personal responsibility to test every teacher and his teachings, and make sure that they fit into the whole counsel of God’s Word. It may be hard work but it is needful for our relationship with God. Don’t be led astray by thieves and robbers!