THE GOOD SHEPHERD

John 10:1-21

Key Verse: 10:11

* JESUS IS OUR SHEPHERD (1-6)

1. To whom is Jesus speaking? Who acted as a good shepherd to the man born blind? (Chapter 9)

2. When a man climbs over the fence into the sheep pen, what does this reveal about him? How are the motives of one who comes over the wall different from those of the shepherd?

3. What are the differences between a shepherd and a stranger? What shows that the shepherd knows the sheep and that they know him? What does this teach about the relationship of love between us and our Shepherd, Jesus?

* "I AM THE GATE" (7-10)

4. What claim does Jesus make in verses 7-10? What does it mean that Jesus is the gate? What does he promise to those who enter through him? What does this mean? Is there any other way to God?

5. Who were the thieves and robbers about whom Jesus spoke? (see Ezk. 34:2,3) How did the Pharisees show themselves to be thieves and robbers to the man born blind?

* "I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD" (11-21)

6. What does Jesus claim about himself? (11,14a) In what respect is he a good sheep to God? (14b,15) What is the first evidence that he is the good shepherd? (11,15,17,18) (cf. 1Sam.17:34-36)

7. How does the hired hand resemble the shepherd? How is he basically different? What does the hired hand have in common with the thief?

8. How else does Jesus the good shepherd show that he cares for the sheep? (lob,3,4,9,14,15,21) (see also Ps.139:2,3; Mk. 6:34; Ps.23)

9. Who are the other sheep? What responsibility does Jesus take toward them? What does this teach about Jesus' world mission purpose? How is it possible for there to be one flock and one shepherd?

10. How can we be good sheep of Jesus? How can we be shepherd?