Jesus The Door Of The Sheep Series

JESUS THE DOOR OF THE SHEEP

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 10:9

Key Verse: “I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.” – John 10:9

Supporting Texts: Psalm 23:1-4; John 14:6; Ephesians 2:18; Hebrews 10:19-22

INTRODUCTION:

In John 10, Jesus reveals Himself as both the Good Shepherd and the Door of the Sheep. This imagery draws from the ancient practice of shepherds guarding their flocks in open fields, where the shepherd himself became the “door,” lying across the entrance to protect the sheep from harm and intruders.

By calling Himself the Door, Jesus declares that He alone provides access to the Father, eternal life, and divine safety. There is no other legitimate entry into God’s kingdom except through Him. All who try to climb in by another way are labelled thieves and robbers.

Every believer must understand that true security, provision, and peace are found only in Christ. Outside Him, there is danger and destruction, but in Him, there is rest, guidance, and eternal assurance. Let us explore the profound meaning of Jesus as the Door of the Sheep.

1. JESUS IS THE ONLY ACCESS TO SALVATION AND ETERNAL LIFE

Jesus stands as the exclusive doorway through which all must pass to receive salvation and eternal life.

a) Salvation is through Christ alone (Acts 4:12): There is no other name given under heaven by which humanity can be saved except Jesus Christ. He is the single entrance to eternal hope.

b) The Door leads to reconciliation with God (Ephesians 2:18): Through Christ, we gain direct access to the Father, enjoying restored relationship and fellowship.

c) The Door separates the sheep from the world (2 Corinthians 6:17): Entering through Jesus means leaving behind the corruption of the world and embracing holiness.

d) The Door ensures entrance into the Kingdom (John 3:3-5): Only those born again through Jesus can enter God’s eternal kingdom.

Biblical Example: The thief on the cross (Luke 23:39-43) entered eternal life through faith in Jesus, the Door. Despite his past, one confession of faith granted him access to paradise.

2. JESUS PROVIDES SAFETY AND SECURITY FOR HIS SHEEP

As the Door, Jesus protects His flock from thieves, predators, and spiritual harm.

a) The Door keeps out the enemy (John 10:10): The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy, but Christ guards His sheep from destruction.

b) The Door provides divine covering (Psalm 91:1-2): Those who dwell in Christ’s presence abide under His shadow, safe from every storm of life.

c) The Door represents divine protection (Isaiah 26:3): Perfect peace is reserved for those who trust in the Lord’s protection.

d) The Door ensures no one is lost (John 6:37-39): Every soul that comes to Jesus is kept securely; no force can pluck them out of His hand.

Biblical Example: When Israel applied the blood to their doorposts (Exodus 12:22-23), death passed over them. Likewise, Jesus, our Door, secures us from spiritual death through His blood.

3. JESUS LEADS HIS SHEEP INTO ABUNDANT PROVISION

Through the Door, the sheep find green pastures, refreshment, and fulfilment.

a) The Door opens into divine provision (Psalm 23:1-2): In Christ, all needs are met, and the sheep lack nothing essential for life and godliness.

b) The Door grants access to spiritual nourishment (John 6:35): Jesus satisfies our spiritual hunger and thirst, providing sustenance for our souls.

c) The Door brings rest and peace (Matthew 11:28-29): In Christ, weary hearts find rest, comfort, and renewal.

d) The Door leads to abundant life (John 10:10): Jesus came not only to save but also to give life in overflowing measure.

Biblical Example: In the wilderness, God provided manna and water for Israel (Exodus 16:4-15). Today, through Jesus the Door, we have continual access to the Bread of Life and Living Water.

4. JESUS INVITES ALL TO ENTER AND ABIDE IN HIM

The Door is open, and the invitation is extended to everyone who will respond in faith.

a) The Door of grace is open to all (Revelation 3:20): Jesus stands knocking at the door of every heart, longing for fellowship and surrender.

b) The Door of mercy is still available (Isaiah 55:6-7): Those who seek the Lord while He may be found will encounter His saving grace.

c) The Door of opportunity requires response (2 Corinthians 6:2): Now is the day of salvation; the door will not always remain open.

d) The Door leads to eternal dwelling with God (John 14:2-3): Through Christ, we gain access to an everlasting home in the Father’s house.

Biblical Example: Noah’s Ark (Genesis 7:16) symbolised salvation. When God shut the door, those inside were saved, and those outside were lost. Likewise, Jesus is the open Door of salvation today.

CONCLUSION:

Jesus, the Door of the Sheep, is the only entrance to salvation, peace, and eternal life. Through Him, we find safety from sin, nourishment for the soul, and assurance of divine care. The world offers many paths, but only the Door of Jesus leads to everlasting joy and life.