The Gate – The Disciple-Making Lifestyle

Jesus taught that “The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep.” (John 10:2) When He used this figure of speech, those listening clearly did not understand what He was teaching. He therefore repeated His illustration explaining that He was represented by the gate in the parable. He explained, “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep.” (John 10:7)

As you pray for the privilege of ministry today, let this teaching become your strong confidence. The Lord said, “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish…” (John 10:27-28) When He said these important words, there were already many Hebrew believers who were living by faith under the first covenant established with Abraham. They were already His sheep!

Three things are forever assured – Jesus is our gateway to heaven, His first century spiritual sheep recognized His voice, and they spontaneously followed Him (see John 10:27). Their eternal life in heaven was totally secure, as is ours, because of their trust in Him. He explained, “My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of My hand. I and My Father are one…” (John 10:29-30)

As redeemed Christians, we are simultaneously and securely held in both our Father and our Savior’s hands. In addition, we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit. This is the blessing awaiting all those who enter heaven’s gate!

Spiritual truth is both universal and timeless! The Lord explained that all sinful religious leaders who have ever claimed to be God’s gateway to heaven, have actually been “…thieves and robbers.” (John 10:8) They came to deceive, “…steal, kill, and destroy…,” but Jesus said, “…I have come that they [My sheep] might have life and have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10)

As you pray for the opportunity to share your faith today, you can approach God’s throne with great confidence, knowing that all who choose to enter heaven’s gate by faith in Jesus Christ will be saved. That was His clear promise!

Quietly meditate on these promises:

“I am the way, the truth, and the life, no one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6)

“When a man believes in Me, he does not believe in Me only, but in the one who sent Me.” (John 12:44)