1. The shepherd enters by the gate (1-2)

The true shepherd is sent by God. He does not become a leader by political maneuvering. Jesus came from God to be the promised Shepherd of God's people (Eze 34:15-16,23-24; Ps 23; 80; 95; 100).

2. He calls his sheep by name (3)

The Good Shepherd calls his sheep by name. He knows and loves each one; he knows our weaknesses and strengths. The Good Shepherd knows us better than we know ourselves (Ps 139:2,3).

3. He goes before them (4-6)

The Good Shepherd goes on ahead of his sheep. He leads them by his example, not by threats or coercion or special favor. They follow him because they trust him. They do not trust a stranger. We must know the voice of our Shepherd, Jesus. This means that we must know his heart and accept his word as absolute authority in our lives.

Application: Lord, teach me to hear your voice and follow you all the way.
One Word: Jesus is our true Shepherd