Jesus is the most important Man, not just in our nation, not just on Planet Earth, but in the entire universe. And He isn’t important just for four years or eight years like some political leaders, but forever and ever and ever! Furthermore, the most important Man in the universe thinks I am so important, He gave His own life for me. How can I feel depressed by the smallness of my life when the most important Man in the universe has died for me, rules over me now, and will one day return for me? In the eyes of the Lord Jesus Christ, I am important. My life has value.
And in every way imaginable, life is better with Jesus. He not only gives meaning and purpose to life, He gives direction and makes a difference. If you are depressed by the smallness of your life, you can find encouragement through Jesus! If you are defeated by life’s struggles, you can find hope through Jesus.
Read John 10:7-10
In Jesus’ day, the summer sheepfold was located in the highland pasture. Stones from the pasture itself were piled on top of each other until they formed a circular wall, and this created the sheepfold. The wall had one gap, and that served as a gate through which the sheep could enter and leave. The shepherd would lie down in the gap as a literal door to the fold. Keep in mind that the fold in this parable is a picture of a relationship with God that includes forgiveness of sin, salvation and eternal life.
I. BECAUSE JESUS SAVES YOUR LIFE
John 10:7-9
Who did Jesus say is the Gate to the sheepfold in verse 7? State what this means in your own words.
How is the fact that there was just one way into the fold confirmed by Genesis 3:24? Genesis 6:16? Exodus 26:33?
Explain how verse 7 helps to illustrate John 14:6, Hebrews 10:19-22, John 17:2-3 and Acts 4:12.
Who are the thieves and robbers in verse 8? List phrases from 1 Peter 5:8, Matthew 7:15, Luke 20:46-47, Luke 21:8 and 1 Corinthians 6:9. Name types of people today who would fit into these categories.
What is in the sheepfold that the thieves and robbers are trying to steal? How do they do this?
What do the following verses show that you can do to recognize and guard against a thief or robber? Romans 16:17; Matthew 7:16-18, 21-24; Colossians 4:2; and 1 Timothy 4:16.
Have you ever had an experience with a thief or robber? If so, describe what it was like.
How far has Jesus gone to protect and secure our place in the fold? See John 10:11, 14-15. List phrases also from Ephesians 1:13, 1 Thessalonians 5:9 and Revelation 7:10 and 19:1.
II. BECAUSE JESUS CHANGES YOUR LIFE
John 10:10
Describe a life without Jesus according to Acts 26:18 and Ephesians 5:8.
Give as many characteristics of a life without Jesus as you can from Romans 1:18-32.
Before Jesus came into your life, what was your life like?
In verse 10, what does Jesus say He will do for you?
Read the following verses and state ways that Jesus changes your life for the better: John 4:13-14 with 7:38, John 8:12, 1 Corinthians 2:16, 2 Corinthians 4:6, Romans 12:2, 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, 2 Corinthians 3:18, Colossians 1:13 and Ephesians 5:13-14.
How complete are these changes according to John 1:12? John 3:3-8? 2 Corinthians 5:17? Ephesians 2:19?
What difference has Jesus made in your life?
What changes in your life have your spouse, neighbor, children, church or co-worker seen?
Jesus is the Savior Who has redeemed us, the Son of God Who has freed us, the Shepherd Who guides us, the Eternal King Who loves us.
He is the foundation on which we build our lives … the Rock on which we stand.
Eternity will not be enough time to thank Him for Who He is and for what He has done for you and for me.
And I can testify, from personal experience, to the fact that this life is much better with Jesus! ©2011 Anne Graham Lotz
Anne Graham Lotz, founder of Angel Ministries, has proclaimed God’s Word worldwide for more than 30 years. She launched her “Just Give Me Jesus” revivals in 2000 and is author of 13 books. This article is taken from the book “Life is … Just Better … With Jesus.” For more on Anne’s ministry, visit annegrahamlotz.com.