"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 10:10 ( This is the last in this series)
Jesus closes the picture with a stark contrast between the thief and
Himself. The thief is only out to steal the sheep, kill and thoroughly
destroy them. The sheep are not safe from him. Certainly, this is the
effect false theachrs and leaders have upon people. They may speak the
reassuring words of a shepherd. They may even come dressed as a real
shepherd. But in the end they only destory the precious souls of people
by their false teachings.
In contrast Jesus comes to give life. That is why He laid down His life
for the sheep by His perfect life and . . .
"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 10:10 ( This is the last in this series)
Jesus closes the picture with a stark contrast between the thief and Himself. The thief is only out to steal the sheep, kill and thoroughly destroy them. The sheep are not safe from him. Certainly, this is the effect false theachrs and leaders have upon people. They may speak the reassuring words of a shepherd. They may even come dressed as a real shepherd. But in the end they only destory the precious souls of people by their false teachings.
In contrast Jesus comes to give life. That is why He laid down His life for the sheep by His perfect life and innocent suffering and death. That is what He guarantees to them through His triumphant resurrection. Through His work He gives real life which forgives sin, frees people from guilt, removes the fears and worries of everyday life and ultimately lasts for all eternity in heaven. As Jesus says, He came so people could have life and have it to the fullest. Jesus gives life that no one or nothing else can give. He gives us an abundance of grace, joy and peace. He also gives us the ability to live for Him, free from our slavery to sin and Satan. Jesus is the life-giver in every sense of the word. The text also contains ample warning against the "thieves" so common and so prevalent in the religious world today.
Christian friends, Jesus said that He came to give us an abundant life. And when we know His mind, feel His heart, and experience the power of His resurrection, we will truly live before we die.
We all have abundant life,
Not one of desperation,
As we walk closely with the LORD
And flee from sin's temptation.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY - We get the most out of life when we know Christ and truly live for Him.