31/3/2020 – I am the Gate
I Am the Gate – John 10.1-10 Study Questions
John 10:1 “Truly I tell you, anyone who doesn’t enter the sheep pen by the gate but climbs in some other way is a thief and a robber. 2 The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens it for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought all his own outside, he goes ahead of them. The sheep follow him because they know his voice. 5 They will never follow a stranger; instead they will run away from him, because they don’t know the voice of strangers.” 6 Jesus gave them this figure of speech, but they did not understand what he was telling them.
7 Jesus said again, “Truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep didn’t listen to them. 9 I am the gate. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will come in and go out and find pasture. 10 A thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance.
1. Why does Jesus use the analogy of God’s people being like sheep? (v1)
2. Who do you think the thieves and robbers are, and why are they dangerous?
3. What relationship does that true shepherd have with his sheep? (vv2-5)
4. What confidence and assurance can the sheep have?
5. Why do you think the people in v6 didn’t understand?
6. What is Jesus saying about himself by saying he is the gate for the sheep? (v7)
7. What does it mean to enter by the gate? (v9)
8. What is the alternative to trusting in Jesus Christ? (v10a)
9. What is the amazing promise Jesus makes as the gate? (v10b)
10. What comfort can we find as his sheep at this time of uncertainty?
Author: Adrian Russell
Prayer of the Day
Almighty God,
We thank you that we can turn to you for comfort and assurance through this difficult and uncertain times. You are indeed our Rock and our refuge.
As we walk through the darkest valley, we fear no danger for you are with us. Help us to continue to walk in faith with you, trusting in your sovereignty.We pray for the vulnerable and the isolated in our church and community. We commit to you the elderly, our parents and those who are alone and isolated. Protect them and keep them safe. Surround and comfort them with the peace that comes from knowing you.
For those in our community who do not know you, may they seek you and find assurance and certainty in you. Grant us, who believe in you, opportunities and courage to share our real hope in Christ.
In your great name we pray. Amen.
