What does John 10:3 mean?

Explanation

This verse, John 10:3, is a part of the allegory of the Good Shepherd that Jesus tells in the Gospel of John. In the imagery being used, Jesus is the Good Shepherd, and His followers are like sheep.

"To him, the porter openeth" suggests that the legitimate shepherd is recognized and given entrance by the gatekeeper.

Here, "porter" is a term for a gatekeeper.

The sheep are described as hearing his voice, indicating a relationship of trust and familiarity.

Each sheep is known individually to the shepherd, and in this intimacy, he calls them by name.

The shepherd then leads the sheep out, signifying guidance and care.

The deeper meaning embedded in this verse reflects the nature of the relationship between Jesus and His followers, a relationship based on intimacy, recognition, personalized care, and guidance.

The shepherd's call is one that requires a response from the sheep, thus embracing the concept of free will in following Jesus.

Historical Context

The Gospel of John was written in a context where shepherding was a common occupation, and the imagery of a shepherd would be well understood by Jesus' listeners.

It is thought to have been written between AD 90 and 110.

Shepherds during this period were responsible for the safety and wellbeing of their flock, and familiar relationships with their sheep were necessary.

Historical depictions of good shepherds would contrast against the backdrop of corrupt or uncaring religious leaders of the time, with whom the audience might be familiar.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, some view this verse as highlighting Jesus' role as the one who knows and calls His followers personally. It implies a divine ability to know individuals intimately and guide them.

The verse also touches on the precept of predestination, where it is interpreted that those who hear and respond to Jesus' call have been chosen by God.

Additionally, some theologians consider the verse to be illustrative of the exclusivity of Christianity; Jesus calls "his own" sheep, implying that not all are part of this flock. Others focus on the pastoral role of Jesus as one of gentle care, contrasting Him with impersonal or distant deities.

Practical Applications

On a personal level, this verse can motivate individuals to strive for a closer relationship with Jesus, being attentive to His guidance.

It underscores the importance of recognizing and responding to Jesus' call which can be understood as the call to live according to His teachings.

For pastors and religious leaders, the verse serves as a model for ministry, emphasizing the importance of personal relationships with their congregation and leading by example.

Cross-References

• "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:" (John 10:27)
• "And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice." (John 10:4)
• "I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine." (John 10:14)
• "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." (Psalm 23:1)

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key terms include "porter" (θυρωρός, thyroros), which means gatekeeper or doorkeeper; "voice" (φωνή, phonē), which may signify sound or tone; and "calleth" (καλεῖ, kalei), which is a present active indicative verb meaning to call out or invite.

The use of the present tense in "calleth" and "openeth" suggests continuous action.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient cultures, the image of a shepherd was often used to symbolize leadership or divinity.

For instance, in ancient Mesopotamia, kings were often referred to as shepherds of their people.

Similarly, in Egyptian mythology, Osiris is sometimes depicted as a shepherd.

Religious parallels can be drawn from the pastoral role of Jesus to similar guiding roles in other faith traditions, such as the concept of the Hindu god Krishna, who is also a divine herdsman.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern sheepherding practices still affirm the idea that sheep can recognize the voice of their shepherd, aligning with the verse's depiction of sheep responding to the call of one they trust.

Studies in animal behavior continue to show that domesticated animals can form attachments and respond to individual humans, suggesting a biological basis for the relationship described in the verse.

Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary notes the special intimacy of the relationship between Christ and His followers, where the Shepherd has a particular care for and knowledge of His sheep.

Similarly, the Pulpit Commentary emphasizes the responsiveness of the sheep to the shepherd's voice, viewing it as an analogy for believers recognizing and following the teachings of Jesus.

Many commentaries highlight the contrast between Jesus, the genuine shepherd, and false leaders who do not have the same care for their flock.