I AM the Gate // John 10:7-10
A message by Pastor Mark Jordan in our current series exploring the “I AM” statements of Jesus from the Gospel of John.
John 10:7-10 (NIV) | Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
The Sheep Gate
- The Sheep Gate was the first gate to be restored, and it was rebuilt by the High Priest and his fellow priests. Note: This was the only gate that was consecrated (set apart as holy), as it was used for bringing in sacrifices for the temple. (Neh.3:1)
- It was called the Sheep Gate because it was the entrance for sheep entering into the Temple compound from the sheep markets (where lambs were sold for sacrifice in the Temple) and the sheep pool (later known as Pool of Bethesda), where sheep were washed for sacrificing.
- Thousands of years later, Jesus always entered Jerusalem via the Sheep Gate (except for the Triumphal Entry).
- The Sheep Gate led to Golgotha, the path Jesus took to the crucifixion.
The Sheep Gate Reminds Us…
- Jesus is the Lamb of God
- The sheep gate had no bolts or bars — salvation freely available to everyone
- Built by the High Priest — Jesus is our High Priest
The Gate of Protection – Jesus as the Sheep Gate stands as the protector of His flock, guarding us from harm and false shepherds.
- John 10:8, “All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them.”
- Jesus shields us from spiritual dangers.
- False shepherds lead astray; Jesus keeps us secure.
The Gate of Salvation – Jesus is the only way to salvation; entering through Him guarantees eternal life.
- John 10:9, “I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.”
- Salvation is exclusive through Jesus.
- Entering means trusting His sacrifice.
The Gate of Abundance – Jesus offers not just life, but life to the full—a rich, purposeful existence.
- John 10:10, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
- Jesus provides spiritual nourishment.
- Abundant life is freedom, peace, and purpose.
Conclusion – Jesus, Our Sheep Gate… Will you enter through Him today?
- Protection, Salvation, Abundance—all in Jesus.
- Call to trust and follow Him.
Reflection Questions
- How have I experienced Jesus as a protector in my life? Are there “thieves” I need to reject?
- What does it mean to me personally that Jesus is the only gate to salvation?
- In what areas of my life am I still searching for abundance outside of Jesus?
- How can I trust Jesus more fully as my Sheep Gate this week?
- Who in my life needs to hear about the safety and fullness found in Jesus?