“All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:8-10 NIV)
Many scholars, pastors, and people in general think that sheep are dumb animals. Yet, they are smart enough to discern the difference between the false and the authentic. And they can determine who they should follow and who they should refuse to follow. I know some otherwise intelligent people who don’t seem to be able to do either.
In our post-modern society there are many deceivers who offer us their concept of life. Such deceivers are thieves who will neither come through the gate nor point to the gate. Instead, they always devise “some other way” (v.1) to possess life. Yet, their ways rob us of the fullest extent of life we could otherwise enjoy through Christ. He is the gate of life . . . authentic life . . . the fullest extent of life. And whoever passes through the gate of life will enjoy complete salvation, total liberty, and the fulfillment of all needs. Who would settle for less life? Why would you settle for less when you can have it all?
Remember, Christ offers life. The deceiver offers death and destruction. Christ took our death and offers us his life in return. The deceiver takes our life and leaves only death in its place. Christ offers us freedom from our bondage. The thief takes our freedom leaving us in bondage. Christ offers us his pasture where all our needs are supplied. The thief deprives us and starves us leaving us destitute and unprotected. Christ offers life to its fullest extent. The thief, however, steals your life, robs you of life, and offers nothing in return but death and destruction.
Why retain death and destruction when you can replace them with life? Decide to not be deceived. Come through the gate of life. Believe in Christ as Savior. Confess him as Lord. Receive his offer of life. Enjoy life now and forever!
Dear Father, thank for the life you give through Jesus Christ. Grant that all who read these words may receive Christ’s offer of life. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Today come through the gate of life,