Lent mid-week 2

Mid-week 2

February 16, 2005

John 10:7-10

Jesus said,  “I am the gate”

INTRODUCTION: As we review the words of the Savior we have a better understanding of His will and His ways. Last week we learned that Jesus is the light of the world. Tonight we will learn that He is the door, which leads to eternal life. He is the gate, which lead into mansions glorious. In very clear words Jesus would tell us, “I tell you the truth I am the door for the sheep.”

I.                    Whoever enters through Him will be saved.

A.      “All others who came before Me are thieves and robbers.” (V.8)

1.       There had been many false Christ’s who had come, claiming to be the only Christ.

2.       In our day, to this very hour, many false prophets will come claiming to be Him. “Jesus answered, “watch out, and do not let anyone fool you. Because man men will come in My name, saying I am the Messiah and fool many people.” (Matthew 24:4-5)

3.       These imposters can not help, they can not heal, they cannot lead. They only seek to destroy. “The thief comes only in order to steal, kill and destroy.” (v. 10)

B.      There is something special about the Savior’s voice – He speaks as a true shepherd.

1.      “The sheep do not listen to them” (v. 8)

2.      “My sheep hear My voice and they follow Me and I give them eternal life and no one will snatch them out of My hand.”

Transition: Jesus is the true door. Whoever comes in by Him will be saved. And in His care they will live securely.

II.                 As the true door He gives life to the fullest measure.

A.     Jesus reminds us why He came into this world.

1.      “I have come in order that they might have life.” (v. 10b)

2.      The life He gives is one He won for us by suffering on the cross. He lost His life to give us our life. He sacrificed Himself so we could obtain glory.

B.      The life He offers is “life in all its fullness.” (V.10c)

1.      The wine He offered at His first miracle in Cana was “the best.” (John 2)

2.      Anything worth doing is worth doing well. The blessing He bestows are only the best; forgiveness, life, salvation.

CONCLUSION: Jesus is the gate for the sheep. They enter through a marked door to safety and security. Listen to your Shepherd’s voice and follow Him into a safe way made secure by Him.