The Door

Over seven days, we are exploring seven “I am” statements from the Gospel of John. These statements reveal Jesus’s identity, work, and what He offers to anyone who comes to Him. So far, we’ve discussed “I am the bread of life” and “I am the light of the world.” With these, Jesus claims to satisfy the soul’s deepest longings, dispel darkness, and guide people to true life.

Reminder: Take time to read today’s passage on your own or with a friend. Then, when you catch up this week—whether in person or on a call—share what stood out, reflect on your insights, and discuss how it connects to your life. Keep the conversation going!

Today, we’ll examine His third statement: “I am the door.” This declaration is part of a broader analogy about sheepfolds, shepherds, and sheep, illustrating the leadership, protection, and provision Jesus provides compared to the religious leaders of His time.

This analogy follows an incident where Jesus healed a blind man, only for the Pharisees to dismiss him as a sinner and cast him out of the synagogue. Addressing their failure as spiritual leaders, Jesus presents Himself as the door, offering access to safety and life. In the first century, sheep were kept in pens for protection, with shepherds guarding the door to ensure only those meant to enter could. Sheepfolds symbolized safety and belonging, and the door allowed both security and freedom to find pasture.

For Jesus’s audience, this analogy was both a rebuke and a promise. It rebuked the Pharisees, whose leadership was driven by self-interest rather than care for their flock. Jesus likened them to thieves and robbers, exploiting the sheep for their gain. Conversely, He positioned Himself as the exclusive door to true safety and provision. His promise was clear: He knows each sheep by name, offers abundant life, and leads them in ways designed for their ultimate good.

Jesus’s claim is a challenge for us today just as for His first-century audience. Where do you turn for security, provision, and belonging? Do the leaders or systems you trust act in self-interest, or do they truly care for us? Unlike others, Jesus’s leadership is free of exploitation. His promise of abundant life is extended to all who choose to follow Him.

Reflection Questions

1. Where do you naturally turn for security, belonging, or guidance in life? Do you think those things truly offer lasting peace?
2. Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for misleading people. Have you ever experienced leadership that seemed more self-serving than genuinely caring?
3. If abundant life is available through Jesus, what would you want that to look like for you personally?

We’ll see you tomorrow for Day 4!