Stories of the Kingdom: The Parables of JesusSample

Parable of the Sheepgate and the Shepherd

The story of the "Sheepgate and the Shepherd" refers to the metaphorical language used by Jesus to describe himself as the Good Shepherd in John 10:1-18. This passage presents Jesus' teaching about His role as the shepherd of His followers, who are symbolically represented as sheep.

Jesus begins by illustrating the relationship between a shepherd and his sheep, explaining that the sheep know and recognize their shepherd's voice. He contrasts this with the actions of thieves and robbers who try to enter the sheep pen by illegitimate means. The true shepherd enters through the gate, and the sheep listen to his voice and follow Him.

Jesus then declares himself as the "gate for the sheep," emphasizing that whoever enters through Him will be saved and find pasture. He describes himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep, contrasting his selfless care with the selfish motives of hired hands who flee when danger comes.

In what ways can we relate to the sheep in this metaphor, and how can we learn to recognize the voice of Jesus as our shepherd?