I am the gate - O A’u nei o le faitoto’a

Scripture Focus: Ioane 10:1-10

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers. This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them. Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
- John 10:1-10 (KJV)

Study:

In this passage, Jesus uses the metaphor of a sheepfold and a gate to reveal His unique role as the only way to salvation and abundant life. The sheepfold represents the community of God's people, and the door or gate is the exclusive entry point. Jesus contrasts Himself with thieves and robbers who gain access in unauthorized ways, bringing harm rather than help. He is not only the guardian and shepherd who calls His sheep by name, but also the door that leads to safety, sustenance, and life in all its fullness. This imagery emphasizes God's protective, caring nature and the intimate relationship between Jesus and His followers.

Application:

Today, this passage reminds us that Jesus is the only true way into God’s kingdom and into a fulfilling spiritual life. Just as sheep rely on the gate for protection and guidance, we too must rely on Jesus to lead us. Trusting Him means rejecting false teachings and influences that sound appealing but ultimately harm us. We receive security, provision, and abundant life by entering through Jesus. This calls us to listen for His voice daily, follow His guidance faithfully, and find rest in His care amid life’s challenges.

Reflection Questions:

• In what ways do you recognize Jesus as the gate in your life?
• Are there 'thieves and robbers' — false voices or influences — that you need to be cautious of or reject?
• How can you better listen for and follow the voice of Jesus daily?
• What does it mean for you personally to find 'pasture' and 'abundant life' in Christ?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, You are the gate to eternal life and abundant blessing. Help me to enter through You alone each day, trusting Your voice and following Your lead. Protect me from false paths and fill me with the peace and nourishment that only You provide. Teach me to hear You clearly and to live as one of Your beloved sheep. Amen.

Tags: Jesus, gate, shepherd, salvation, abundant life, John 10, Christian living, Bible study, faith, God's character