Jesus said, I am the door

I am the door. If anyone enters through Me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. (John 10:9)

Jesus states emphatically the He is the one and only entry into the sheepfold. And promises that anyone entering in through Him will be saved, go in and out safely, and find nourishing pasture.

He teaches about Himself using the imagery of a sheepfold: a four-sided enclosure with stone walls and only one way in and out. Shepherds led their flocks into sheepfolds for safety and rest. They led them out regularly into nearby pasture to exercise and graze.

Jesus is saying that, as sole Mediator between God and man, He is the only entry into covenant and communion with the Father. And He can save anyone who chooses to receive eternal life by faith in Him. Through submission and obedience, He delivers each of these from sin, guilt, condemnation, evil and the enemy.

Sheep going “in and out” of the fold pictures the two-sided activity of a life joined to God. The contemplative life of secret communion with Him by faith and love. And the outward life of practical work in the activities God provides. Consistent solitary communion with Him increases opportunities to serve outwardly and draws from Him the power to do it.

Sheep “find pasture” in that Jesus Christ satisfies all true human needs. By consistent faith, love and obedience, a barren life becomes fruitful and empty activities replaced by deeds that satisfy.

---Beverly Nickles