John: Door and Good Shepherd

Jesus' relationship with his people is unique. He uses two illustrations to describe it - 'I am the door'; and 'I am the Good Shepherd'. Here are lessons regarding gospel ministry and gospel living. For he teaches that only he can make someone a minister; only he can introduce someone to God's kingdom; and once in the kingdom it is he whom they relate to. A stranger cannot shepherd God's people; ministers need saving experience of Christ, they need his preparation and call. Only then can they be expected to do good to his sheep. He is the entry to God's kingdom in the sense that forgiveness of sins is only in his name - what he has done FOR us; he is also the door in the sense of what he does IN us - the new birth and saving faith through his Spirit. As their Shepherd he leads them into experiences similar to those he had on earth. His love is such that he gave his life for them. We should be careful not to misuse this truth - some Christians despair because they have not had such experiences; others ignore the lost. Jesus' words correct both mistakes - 'Other sheep I have that are not of this fold; them also I must bring and there shall be one fold and one shepherd.'