A continued study of Jesus as the Good Shepherd from John 10. Graphic Outline
Join us as we explore John chapter 10, a profound passage that reveals not just the power of Jesus, but the beauty of His heart.
While Jesus has many great titles, the name Good Shepherd is the most beloved because it shows His loving actions and character.
In this teaching on John 10:14-21, we uncover four key truths about Jesus:
1. The Good Shepherd is Beautiful (John 10:14)Jesus calls Himself the "good shepherd". The Greek word for "good" (kalos) means He is of superior quality and is truly beautiful. His goodness is seen in His gracious acts, like seeking out the man born blind (John 9) and giving abundant, overflowing life. We are encouraged to woo people to Christ by showcasing His loveliness.
2. The Shepherd's Relationship is Intimate (John 10:14-15)Jesus says, "I know my own, and my own know me, just as the Father knows me, and I know the Father". This relationship is elevated to the same level of intimacy that Jesus shares with the Father. The ultimate proof of this love is that He chooses to "lay down my life for the sheep". This is an act of pure sacrifice—He values His named sheep more than His own life.
3. The Shepherd's Mission is Global (John 10:16)Jesus declares: "I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also... So there will be one flock, one shepherd". The "fold" is Israel, and the "other sheep" are the Gentiles—people from every tribe and nation. Jesus' mission is a personal endeavor to draw all His sheep together under one Savior.
4. The Shepherd's Sacrifice is Complete (John 10:17-18)Jesus lays down His life because His relationship with the Father is defined by love, obedience, and submission. He had the authority and choice to die—no one took His life from Him. Furthermore, He laid down not just His body (bios), but His very soul (psyche)—His fundamental inner being—opening it fully to God's wrath to pay our debt of sin completely.
