The Good Shepherd John 10:7–15 The Jews were not only blind but that they were sinfully blind John 9:41 Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth. Cast of Characters Sheep Shepherds Criminals Jesus uses a real world example to teach a real world truth. In the real world, who you are spiritually close to and who you listen to determines your hurt or your happiness. People Who Want to Hurt You (vs.8, 12) Robber Thief Destroyer/Murderer People Who Should Help You (vs. 11) Hireling Other Religious People People Who Want to Help The Great Shepherd (Jesus Christ) He is the Door (vs. 6-7) He is the Defender (vs.10-15) The true shepherd saves (10:9). The true shepherd safeguards (10:10a). The true shepherd satisfies (10:10b). A good shepherd Points out the danger Notices when you are out of the safety of the sheepfold Knows the danger of being away from God Doesn’t give up on you until the Great Shepherd does Wants you to be where you are safe and happy Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. Why Does this Matter? Jesus is the only one who Saves Jesus is the only one who Satisfies It is always dangerous to be away from Jesus You have real enemies