Jn 10:1-10
The gate for the sheep: The discourse forms part of Jesus’ attack on the Pharisees. Here, Jesus describes himself as a messianic leader using an image very familiar to the Israelites: a shepherd taking care of his flock. Jesus is the awaited Messiah, the true leader of a new community of disciples. He distinguishes himself from false “shepherds,” who lead the people astray. To these belong the political revolutionaries as well as the Pharisees and scribes, self-styled religious leaders, who mislead the people and put heavy burden on them.
The gate for the sheep: The discourse forms part of Jesus’ attack on the Pharisees. Here, Jesus describes himself as a messianic leader using an image very familiar to the Israelites: a shepherd taking care of his flock. Jesus is the awaited Messiah, the true leader of a new community of disciples. He distinguishes himself from false “shepherds,” who lead the people astray. To these belong the political revolutionaries as well as the Pharisees and scribes, self-styled religious leaders, who mislead the people and put heavy burden on them.
Consequently, Jesus is rejected by the Jewish religious leaders of his time. He forms a new community of disciples, who heed his personal invitation to “follow” him in faith. He calls each disciple by name (v 3). Hence, the Christian disciple recognizes the intimate and personal quality of his call to faith. The disciples listen to their shepherd’s message and live it.