Existing or Living. (John 10: 1-21)

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Study Notes:
Existing or Living: Scripture: John 10:1-21

Introduction:

Are you living, or are you just existing? Are you living abundantly, living fully, or are you just existing?

What is the secret to living a life full of meaning? Where is it found?

I believe this question is answered for us in John Chapter 10 vs 1-21.

Background:

Before we look at today’s text, let’s look at the flow of the Gospel of John up to this point.

• Chapters 1-4: Everyone who came into contact with Jesus believed in Him.
• Chapter 5: Unbelief begins to creep in.
• Chapter 6: Doubts about Jesus being the Messiah and Savior arise.
• Chapter 7: At the Feast of Tabernacles, there's division among the people.
• Chapter 8: Leaders try to trap Jesus with the woman caught in adultery; some accuse Him of being demon-possessed.
• Chapter 9: Jesus heals a blind man, causing further opposition from the leaders.

When we open John Chapter 10, Jesus is still in Jerusalem at the end of the Feast of Tabernacles.

Jesus tells an allegory with three scenes within one story:

Analysis and Application:

1. Early Morning Scene (Verses 1-6):

• Jesus explains that the true shepherd enters by the correct door.
• The Pharisees are depicted as thieves and robbers harming the sheep.
• Modern cults and false leaders fit this description, deceiving people and causing harm.
• True shepherd: knows his sheep, calls them by name, and leads them out.

2. Noon Scene (Verses 7-10):

• Jesus contrasts Himself with thieves and robbers.
• He is the door; those who enter through Him will be saved.
• Abundant life involves salvation, freedom, and nourishment:
  • Salvation: Being saved from sin and eternal separation from God.
  • Freedom: Liberation from restrictive religious systems and legalism.
  • Nourishment: Spiritual food that truly satisfies the soul.

3. Evening Scene (Verses 11-18):

• Jesus lays down His life for the sheep, unlike hired hands who abandon them.
• He knows each of us intimately and cares for our needs.
• Jesus’ sacrifice enables us to have abundant life.
• He unites all believers into one flock, knowing us personally and providing for us.

Conclusion:

In the final verses (19-21), the crowd’s reaction to Jesus is divided. Some see Him as demon-possessed, while others recognize His unique words and deeds.

Question for Reflection:

Do we dismiss Jesus as mad or demon-possessed, or do we see Him as the Christ? Do we recognize His unique words and deeds and believe in Him? If we believe, we will find the shepherd and the door, experiencing abundant life as we follow Him.

Do you have an abundant life? Do you know the shepherd? Have you entered through the door? Jesus offers abundant life to those who follow

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Chapters

1. Existing or Living. (John 10: 1-21) (00:00:00)

2. [Ad] Ask Ralph - Christian Finance (00:11:40)

3. (Cont.) Existing or Living. (John 10: 1-21) (00:12:26)