John 10:2

But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.

But {G1161} he that entereth in {G1525} by {G1223} the door {G2374} is {G2076} the shepherd {G4166} of the sheep {G4263}.

But the one who goes in through the gate is the sheep’s own shepherd.

But the one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep.

But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.

Commentary

John 10:2 is part of Jesus' profound discourse on the true shepherd, delivered shortly after healing the man born blind and confronting the skeptical Pharisees. This verse sets the stage for understanding legitimate spiritual authority.

Context

In the opening verses of John chapter 10, Jesus uses the imagery of a sheepfold, a common sight in ancient Israel, to illustrate spiritual truths. He begins by describing intruders (John 10:1) who try to enter the sheepfold by climbing over the wall, identifying them as "thieves and robbers." In contrast, John 10:2 introduces the legitimate figure: "But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep." This immediately establishes a dichotomy between unauthorized entry and proper, authorized access, hinting at the nature of true spiritual leadership versus false. This parable is directed at the Pharisees, who were acting as self-appointed spiritual guides but did not truly care for God's flock.

Key Themes

  • Legitimacy and Authority: The primary theme is the distinction between genuine and illegitimate leadership. The "door" signifies the proper, God-ordained way to access the flock, implying divine approval and authority. A true shepherd does not bypass the established way.
  • Authentic Care: A true shepherd enters legitimately because his intention is to care for and protect the sheep, not to exploit or harm them. This foreshadows Jesus' own role as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep.
  • Contrast with False Leaders: This verse subtly critiques the religious leaders of Jesus' day, who often acted like the "thieves and robbers" by seeking their own gain rather than truly serving the spiritual needs of the people. This aligns with prophetic condemnations of negligent leaders in the Old Testament, such as those found in Ezekiel 34.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "shepherd" is poimēn (ποιμήν), which carries the meaning of one who tends, feeds, guides, and protects a flock. It's a term often used in the Bible for spiritual leaders, emphasizing their responsibility for the well-being of God's people. The "door" (Greek: thyra, θύρα) is initially a literal gate, but later in this very chapter, Jesus declares, "I am the door of the sheep" (John 10:9), revealing its ultimate symbolic meaning: He is the exclusive way to salvation and true spiritual pasture.

Practical Application

For believers today, John 10:2 serves as a vital reminder to discern true spiritual leadership. We are called to recognize those who enter "by the door," meaning those whose ministry aligns with God's Word and whose lives demonstrate genuine care for the flock, reflecting the character of Christ. It encourages us to follow leaders who point to Jesus as the ultimate "door" to salvation and abundant life, rather than those who seek self-glory or personal gain. This verse underscores the importance of legitimate spiritual authority derived from God, not human ambition, and directs our trust towards the true Shepherd, Jesus Christ.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • John 10:14 (8 votes)

    I am the good shepherd, and know my [sheep], and am known of mine.

  • Acts 20:28 (7 votes)

    Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

  • Psalms 23:1 (6 votes)

    ¶ A Psalm of David. The LORD [is] my shepherd; I shall not want.

  • 1 Peter 5:4 (6 votes)

    And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

  • Isaiah 40:11 (5 votes)

    He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry [them] in his bosom, [and] shall gently lead those that are with young.

  • Ecclesiastes 12:11 (4 votes)

    The words of the wise [are] as goads, and as nails fastened [by] the masters of assemblies, [which] are given from one shepherd.

  • John 10:9 (3 votes)

    I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.