John 10:7

Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.

Then {G3767} said {G2036} Jesus {G2424} unto them {G846} again {G3825}, Verily {G281}, verily {G281}, I say {G3004} unto you {G5213},{G3754} I {G1473} am {G1510} the door {G2374} of the sheep {G4263}.

So Yeshua said to them again, “Yes, indeed! I tell you that I am the gate for the sheep.

So He said to them again, “Truly, truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep.

Jesus therefore said unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.

Commentary

Context of John 10:7

In John 10:7, Jesus continues His discourse with the Pharisees, which began after He healed the man born blind in John 9. The preceding verses (John 10:1-6) introduce a parable about a sheepfold, a shepherd, and thieves. The Pharisees, who were spiritual leaders but had rejected Jesus, did not understand this allegory. Therefore, Jesus reiterates and clarifies His identity and role, specifically calling Himself the "door of the sheep" to emphasize His unique function in the spiritual life of believers.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Exclusive Access to God: Jesus declares Himself the exclusive means of entering into a saving relationship with God. Just as there was only one literal door to a sheepfold for the shepherd and his flock, Jesus is the singular spiritual gateway. This highlights that salvation and true spiritual life are found only through Him, not through other paths or human efforts.
  • Security and Protection: As the "door," Jesus also represents the security of the sheep. He stands between the flock and any external dangers—spiritual thieves, robbers, or false teachers who seek to harm or mislead. Entering through Him guarantees safety and provision, leading to salvation and abundant spiritual pasture.
  • Divine Identity ("I AM"): This verse contains another of Jesus' profound "I AM" statements (Greek: ego eimi), echoing God's self-revelation to Moses in Exodus 3:14. By declaring "I am the door," Jesus asserts His divine nature and unique authority, positioning Himself as the sole mediator between God and humanity. This powerfully affirms His claim as the only way to the Father.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "Verily, verily" (Greek: amen amen) is a characteristic introduction in John's Gospel, used by Jesus to emphasize the absolute truth and solemnity of His declaration. It signifies a profound and unwavering statement, demanding careful attention from His listeners.

The term "door" (Greek: thyra) is not merely a passageway but implies the gatekeeper, the protector, and the one who grants or denies access. In ancient sheepfolds, the shepherd sometimes literally slept in the doorway, acting as the living door to protect the sheep from predators and thieves.

Practical Application

For believers today, John 10:7 offers profound assurance and clear direction. It reminds us that our salvation and security are found exclusively in Jesus Christ. We do not need to seek other ways or fear false teachers, because Jesus Himself is our access to God and our ultimate protection. It also serves as a call to recognize and trust in Jesus as the sole means of entering into God's flock, finding spiritual rest, and experiencing the fullness of life He offers.

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Cross-References

  • John 14:6 (22 votes)

    Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

  • Ephesians 2:18 (21 votes)

    For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

  • John 10:1 (18 votes)

    Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.

  • John 10:9 (16 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.

  • Ezekiel 34:31 (13 votes)

    And ye my flock, the flock of my pasture, [are] men, [and] I [am] your God, saith the Lord GOD.

  • Psalms 79:13 (10 votes)

    So we thy people and sheep of thy pasture will give thee thanks for ever: we will shew forth thy praise to all generations.

  • Hebrews 10:19 (9 votes)

    ¶ Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,