(1) v.11-15
Repeated words: Good shepherd, hired hand, not own sheep, not concerned, know own hseep, ...knows me and I know...
The 3rd "I am" of Jesus was "I am the good shepherd." His protection to His own sheep based on the fact that He knew us, and therefore He was concerned about us. His protection was to the highest degree that He lays down His life for us. This kind of knowing was more than a causal knowing. It is just like how the Father knows Jesus and how Jesus knows the Father.
In v.1-10 he blind man and other true believers recognized Jesus and was encouraged to follow Him. However, the thieves and robbers (Pharisees) might sneak in and destroy. Jesus protected us as the door. Here, He assured us that He would protect us to the highest degree, just because we are His own.
Reflection: Sheep did not do anything to protect ourselves. Thanks to our Good Shepherd Who did everything for us. Belonging to Jesus was the most high privilege in our lives. We can be confident in our lives because Jesus loves us.
(2) v.16 I have other sheep that do not come from this sheepfold. I must bring them too, and they will listen to my voice, so that there will be one flock and one shepherd.
(NET) The statement I have other sheep that do not come from this sheepfold almost certainly refers to Gentiles. Jesus has sheep in the fold who are Jewish; there are other sheep which, while not of the same fold, belong to him also. This recalls the mission of the Son in 3:16–17, which was to save the world—not just the nation of Israel.
(3) v.17-21
Repeated phrases: lay down, take back, my own free will to lay down , the authority to lay down and take back.
The Jewish people thought Jesus was demon possessed or He had lost His mind when Jesus said He has the authority to take His life back.
The greatest love was shown when Jesus gave up His life on His own. Even He has the authority of life and death He chose death for us.
Reflection: What had we given up for God? We had the right to say "No," but we said "yes," just for God. Have you?
Audrey
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