"I am the Gate" sermon preview

This week is the third in our series of Jesus' "I am" statements in John and we might consider it the first of a two part statement.  John 10 contains two "I am"s, I am the gate and I am the good shepherd, each of which come out of the context of Jesus using sheep as a metaphor for us and his relationship to us.  This week we will focus in on Jesus' declaration, "I am the gate," from John 10:1-10.

In this portion of the passage, Jesus describes Himself as the gate to a sheep pen.  Within this metaphor, we have several pertinent lessons to consider.  First, we enter through the gate.  We enter the sheep pen, the kingdom, through the gate, through Jesus.  It is through our faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior that we receive salvation and that we enter the kingdom of God. Second, we know the voice of our master, Jesus.  Jesus calls us by name, we recognize His voice, and trust Him.  Third, we follow His lead.  Sheep follow their master and we follow ours.  It is not enough to be in the pen or to recognize the voice, we also must follow where His voice leads.

But what does this mean for how we live out our faith?  I believe that we must begin by listening.  In order for us to recognize the voice of Jesus, we first must be listening for it, yet how often are we too busy, too distracted, or too verbose to hear Jesus words? We continue by dwelling. Jesus is the gate that we enter through, but he also gives us the sense in this passage that He is the gate that keeps danger out.  And so we also have the opportunity to dwell in Jesus presence and thereby grow in His likeness.  We proceed by following.  While we need to dwell in the safety of our savior, we also need to follow His lead beyond the sheep pen into the uncertain world in which we are called to be ambassadors for God's kingdom.  This may lead us into uncertain territories, but as long as we remain tuned into His voice, we will be safe and He will use us for His purposes.

As you consider Jesus as the Gate, reflect on these questions in a time of silence, through journaling or in group dialogue.

1. What does it mean to you for Jesus to be the Gate?  How is your life different as a result of this understanding?

2. Are there things in life that overtly or subversively vie to be your gate, your refuge and safety in times of fear or trouble?  Take time to repent and prayerfully consider how you might refocus your attention on Jesus in your time of need?

3. Do you hear Jesus' voice calling?  If so, what does He sound like or what does He say?  If not, are there things in your life that interfere with your ability to hear Jesus' voice?

4. Describe a time in which you followed Jesus lead.  Where did He take you and how was that significant for you?

5. How might Jesus be calling you in the week ahead to listen, dwell and follow?

May Jesus richly bless you in this week ahead, opening the gate to His kingdom refuge and leading you in His kingdom purposes. Amen