The Shepherd Gate



Gates are installed through which to pass from on place to another. In the case of a high security area, gates are used to protect those who are inside and keep out those who do not belong.

In ancient Israel, sheep would spend the night in a "sheepfold" which was a rock wall enclosure made up of loosely stacked stone This provided protection for the sheep against thieves or wolves. The enclosure had only one door which was actually just an opening. It is here that the shepherd would lay down at night. Anything or anyone wanting to get to the sheep would first have to pass through the shepherd. 

Jesus referred to His followers as sheep and himself as the good shepherd.

I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. (John 10:14-15)

Jesus also told us that He was the gate by which people can enter into a salvation experience with God. There is only one gate to God. There is only one gate to safe pastures. There is only one gate of protection against the evil one.

Jesus said, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep... whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture." (John 10:7, 9)

Are you sleeping good at night knowing Jesus is watching over you? On which side of the sheepfold are you?

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