1. The sheep know the shepherd's voice (1-6)

In response to the biting criticism and rejection of the Pharisees, Jesus used a shepherd and sheep metaphor to describe his intimate relationship with those who accept him. The true shepherd enters the pen through the gate. The gatekeeper knows the shepherd and lets him in. The shepherd knows and calls his sheep by name and leads them out. The sheep follow him because they know his voice. The sheep will not follow other purported shepherds. Jesus is the shepherd and we are his sheep. He knows us well. May we hear his voice and follow him.

2. Jesus is the gate (7-10)

The Pharisees did not understand, so Jesus changed the metaphor. Jesus is the gate for the sheep. All who enter through him are saved and find pasture. Though many people have appeared in the guise of a shepherd, like the Pharisees, Jesus called them thieves and robbers. They only bring loss and death. But Jesus came to give a full and abundant life to all who believe in him.