Chapter 10
Today Jesus will tell us more about who he claims to be. For some, these claims will be a delight because they are his sheep and have their deepest needs provided for by Jesus. For others, these claims will incite rage because they continue to reject Jesus’ words. Let us look together at the text to see for ourselves the claims of Jesus.
1
In his first parable (10:1-5) Jesus compares the thieves and robbers to the legitimate shepherd of the sheep. A good shepherd does not abuse the sheep. He leads them. In this parable, who do the sheep follow? Who will the sheep not follow?
2
What is the proper way to enter a sheepfold? (10:2)
3
By claiming to be the "door for the sheep," is Jesus claiming to be the proper way for salvation and life? (10:7-10)
4
Jesus states that he is the "good shepherd." He then goes on to compare a good shepherd with a hired hand. What is the good shepherd willing to do that the hired hand is not? (10:11-13)
5
Why is the hired hand not willing to risk his life, but the good shepherd is? (10:13)
6
Do you think the good shepherd has laid down his life for the sheep?
7
What do you think Jesus meant when he said concerning his life, "I have the authority to lay it down, and I have the authority to take it back again." (10:18).
8
Jesus says that he gives eternal life to his sheep. He also uses a figure of speech to say he and the Father will always protect them. What does Jesus say about the relationship between himself and his Father? (10:30)
9
What is the reason that the Jewish leaders give for attempting to stone Jesus? (10:33)
10
If the Jewish leaders are mistaken, and Jesus is the Son of God, does their reason for wanting to stone him seem valid?
11
Jesus asks that his deeds be taken into consideration when one considers his claims. Do you think that the deeds we have read about so far in John’s gospel help demonstrate that Jesus is the Son of God? If so, what deed are you thinking of?
