Calvary Vero Community Groups

Sermon Based Discussion Guide

Week of 09/06/26

Pastor Jim Gallagher

John 10:1-21

Introduction - Jesus the Good Shepherd

Jesus uses seven “I AM” (greek: Ego Eimi) statements in the Book of John, all to explain to his listeners and to us, the nature of His character. In this chapter Jesus states, “I am the Door” and “I am the Good Shepherd”. Jesus uses the tender illustration of a shepherd caring for hIs sheep to show His great care and love for us.

Salvation and the Abundant Life

As the Good Shepherd, Jesus gave up His life for us. His sacrifice gives us two amazing, life-changing things: Salvation and an Abundant life.

Jesus clearly states in this chapter that coming to Him and through Him is the only way to receive salvation. He says five times that He lays down His life for us.

Read John 10:7-9

“I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.” John 10:9

Q. To go “in and out and find pasture” carries the idea that the shepherd cares for the sheep, gives them rest and security, provides for their needs and allows them to be free of worry.  How has Jesus cared for you and given you rest and security? How has He provided for you?

Q. Are you experiencing trials, yet you’re free of worry? Do you have examples of yourself or others experiencing the Lord in this way?

The Shepherd and The Thief

In John 10:10 Jesus states, “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”

Q. Jesus contrasts Himself with the “thief”, “robber” and “stranger” who came “to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.” In what ways has the enemy or the world system led you astray from the true path to God?

Q. The abundant life is a life where we are saved, where Jesus cares for us like a Shepherd, and where we go in and out and find good pasture. Are you experiencing the abundant life?

The Lord is my Shepherd

Read Psalm 23

Q. Looking back at Psalm 23, which of the three scenes—green pastures, the valley of the shadow of death, or the table surrounded by enemies—do you most relate to in your current season of life? How have you experienced God's presence or comfort there?

“But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd.” Matthew 9:36

Q. In Matthew 9:36, Jesus sees how weary and scattered the people are. Are you worried and scattered? Are you trying to find abundant life somewhere other than Jesus? What has taken your focus off Christ?

Q. Do you know that Jesus has compassion for you? In what area of your life right now do you need His strength and refreshment?

Cast all of your cares upon the Lord, for He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7