Pictures of Jesus: The Shepherd of God (John 10:1–21)

In this lecture, Don Carson discusses John 10:1–21, emphasizing Jesus as the Good Shepherd who knows, nurtures, and lays down his life for his sheep. He contrasts Jesus with thieves, showing that, unlike them, Jesus sacrifices for his sheep and leads them with authority and care. Carson reflects on the practical implications of this metaphor for believers and church leaders, urging them to understand and follow Jesus's example.

He teaches the following:

• The historical context of shepherding in the first-century Middle East
• How the metaphor of the shepherd is used to describe Jesus's relationship with his followers
• How John 10 connects to Old Testament themes of shepherds and their roles, particularly Isaiah 56 and Jeremiah 23
• How the metaphor of the gate describes Jesus's role in leading and nurturing believers
• How the metaphor of the shepherd illustrates the pastoral care that church leaders should provide
• The key points of Jesus's relationship with his people: knowledge, nurturing, sacrifice, and transformation