[1]NASHVILLE (BP) — This weekly Bible study appears in Baptist Press in a partnership with Lifeway Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Through its Leadership and Adult Publishing team, Lifeway publishes Sunday School curricula and additional resources for all age groups.
This week’s Bible study is adapted from the Explore the Bible curriculum.
Bible Passages: John 10:7-14, 25-30
Discussion Questions:
— How does Jesus serve as the gate into abundant life?
— What does an abundant life look like?
[2]— What hinders us from hearing the voice of Jesus and following Him?
Food for thought:
Jesus often taught using parables, metaphors and imagery, so that his hearers could understand spiritual truths in everyday language. John 10 is no exception. In this chapter, Jesus likened Himself to a gate and a shepherd. He wanted his disciples and others to know who He was and what He came to accomplish. These two descriptions reveal significant truths about his identity and purpose.
In John 10:11-14, Jesus compared Himself to a good shepherd who willingly dies for his sheep. Hired workers may run away when they see danger, but not Jesus. He knows His sheep, and they know Him. This description emphasized the personal relationship Jesus has with His followers. They are His “own” (v. 14). They belong to Him! Jesus already declared His care and knowledge of them. Believers can trust Him to provide protection and His presence at all times.
Believers face dangers and difficulties of all kinds today. Stress and fear seem to be at an all-time high. We worry about our finances, health concerns and family relationships. There is good news, though. With Jesus as our Good Shepherd, we do not face these challenges alone. He is with us and He has promised to guide us. What changes might we need to make this week to more easily hear His voice? Take those steps and be ready to follow in obedience. “My sheep hear my voice, I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27).
Explore the Bible
Explore the Bible is an ongoing Bible study curriculum that helps groups dig into the key truths of each Bible book, while keeping the group on pace to study through the Bible books in a systematic way. More information can be found at Lifeway.com/ExploreTheBible [3].
Other ongoing Bible study options for all ages offered by Lifeway can be found at Lifeway.com/SundaySchool [4]and Lifeway.com [5].