The number 4 is huge here in this verse. This is the fourth instance where Jesus evokes the “I am” terminology which implies that he is divine. “I am the bread of life” (6:35). “I am the Light of the world” (8:12). “I am the door of the sheep” (10:7). “I am the good shepherd” (10:11, 14). Four times in these verses Jesus repeats that He lays down His life (10:11, 15, 17, 18). In the first two, He repeats that He lays down His life for His sheep. The last two times, He emphasizes that He lays down His life so that He may take it up again. Now, let’s look at four things here:
1) Jesus was selfless (Heb. 12:2; Rom. 5:7-8; John 10:18)
2) Jesus’ death was sacrificial (2 Cor. 5:21)
3) Jesus’ death was specific (Eph. 5:25, John 10:29, John 6:37, 39; John 3:16; John 4:42, Rev. 22:17; John 6:39; 10:28).
4) Jesus’ death was successful (Romans 4:25)
Many ask the question, “Why follow Jesus?” As we see throughout the Bible that following Him may result in trials, persecution, or even martyrdom. We see in Psalm 73 that the author was honest about struggling with the same question. He looked at the wicked who seemed to be prospering and though (Psa. 73:13a), “Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure…” The abundant life that Jesus gives consists in having God Himself as our portion, both now and forever. That’s why you should follow Jesus as your good shepherd.
