John 10: 1 – 10
“Abundant Life”
In the ancient Near East, kings and rulers considered themselves shepherds of the people
However, political leaders could not insure against earthquakes, famine floods, or other natural disasters.
The emperor in Rome considered himself a good shepherd because of his power and might, but his abilities to guard the people only went too far.
When Jesus called himself the Good Shepherd he was making the revolutionary claim that Caesar was not the good shepherd.
Jesus could claim the title Good Shepherd because He brought the gift of abundant life (verse 10).
Abundant life consisted of hope based on fact not fancy.
Abundant life focuses on things that will not pass away.
Abundant life replaces fear with faith.
In his book, “A shepherd looks at the 23 Psalm,” Phillip Kellar explained that shepherds are responsible for the safety and well being of the herd.
God provides abundant life because God protects; He lays us down in green pastures and leads us beside the still waters.
From the Desk of the Pastor 