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Lesson Notes:

(10:11-15) – The Good Shepherd– Jesus also identifies Himself as the “good” shepherd, which
implies there must also be a “bad” shepherd. The sign that distinguishes the “good” shepherd
from the “bad”, is the willingness of the shepherd to give his life for the sheep. The goodness
of the shepherd is not a description of the shepherd’s moral character but instead speaks to the
shepherd’s willingness to give up his life for the sheep that belong to him. In contrast a “bad”
shepherd would be synonymous to a hireling; someone not vested in the protective care of the
sheep and un-willing to sacrifice his life for them.

(10:13) –The hireling is not willing to give up his life for the sheep he is in-trusted to guard and
protect. If the predator comes the hireling will flee to save his own life and will not stand to
defend the sheep.

(10:14-15) –The good shepherd knows, his sheep, meaning he has bonded in relationship with
them and they know him as their guardian and protector.
The father knows and will affirm the identity of the good shepherd. The father knows that the
good shepherd will lay down his life to save and protect the sheep.

John 10:16 - And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I
must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and
one shepherd.
John 10:17 - Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my
life, that I might take it again.
John 10:18 - No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have
power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment
have I received of my Father.

Lesson Notes:

(10:16) – The Shepherd-Messiah identifies sheep belonging to Him from another sheepfold that
He must bring to create one united flock. A second sheepfold means that there are other sheep
already gathered waiting for the Shepherd to return.
This passage is one of the few examples in the Gospel writings to indicate the Messiah’s
interest and influence on people groups outside of the Hebrew tribes. Making the reference to
other sheep within a sheepfold strongly suggest the Messiah’s work beyond the house of Israel
yielded tangible results.
The other sheep represent Gentiles in Palestine and perhaps beyond that accepted Jesus as the
Messiah. God intends to save all men from containment not just the chosen Jews. His plan
included a way for Jews and Gentiles to have access to the pasture of eternal life.

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