2014.7.20 礼拝

LC Message-John 10:1-21- “Accepting the fact that we are SHEEP”
Review of previous messages:
7 sayings of Jesus — “I Am” statements.
1. I am the Bread of Life (6:35,41,48,51).
This has to do with us receiving Jesus into our lives – a personal relationship.
2. I am the Light of the World (8:12; 9:5).
————-this week’s message——————
3. I am the Gate for the Sheep (10:7,9)
4. I am the good Shepherd (10:11, 14)
(1). If we really want to understand this passage we need to understand sheep a little more.
Testimony from those in church members that have had sheep.
A description of sheep from Wikipedia — sheep are very adept at knowing their Shepherd.
A challenge to really understand sheep
(2) Similarities we have with sheep:
John 10:3-4 – To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.
He calls us by name. We respond to His voice. In this way we are very much like sheep.
(3) We need to admit that we are sheep
Mark 6:34 – When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things.
We need to admit that we are weak like sheep. Jesus said that we are like sheep without a Shepherd. It means that we are very weak. We need to admit our need for a Shepherd.
(4). We need to accept/recognize the Shepherd. We give Him our lives
Isaiah 40:11 – He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.
Psalm 23:1-4 – The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want…I will fear no evil, for you are with me, your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
We can entrust in His love and be in peace because He is always there caring for us.
5. I am the resurrection and the Life (11:25)
6. I am the way, the truth, and the Life (14:6)
7. I am the true vine (15:1, 5)