John 10:1
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.
Original Language Analysis
ἀμὴν
Verily
G281
ἀμὴν
Verily
Strong's:
G281
Word #:
1 of 23
properly, firm, i.e., (figuratively) trustworthy; adverbially, surely (often as interjection, so be it)
ἀμὴν
Verily
G281
ἀμὴν
Verily
Strong's:
G281
Word #:
2 of 23
properly, firm, i.e., (figuratively) trustworthy; adverbially, surely (often as interjection, so be it)
λέγω
I say
G3004
λέγω
I say
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
3 of 23
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 23
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
μὴ
not
G3361
μὴ
not
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
6 of 23
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
διὰ
by
G1223
διὰ
by
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
8 of 23
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 23
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θύρας
the door
G2374
θύρας
the door
Strong's:
G2374
Word #:
10 of 23
a portal or entrance (the opening or the closure, literally or figuratively)
εἰς
into
G1519
εἰς
into
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
11 of 23
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 23
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐλὴν
G833
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
14 of 23
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
προβάτων
the sheepfold
G4263
προβάτων
the sheepfold
Strong's:
G4263
Word #:
15 of 23
something that walks forward (a quadruped), i.e., (specially), a sheep (literally or figuratively)
ἀλλὰ
but
G235
ἀλλὰ
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
16 of 23
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
ἐκεῖνος
the same
G1565
ἐκεῖνος
the same
Strong's:
G1565
Word #:
19 of 23
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
Cross References
Matthew 7:15Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.Romans 16:18For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.1 John 4:1Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.Hebrews 5:4And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.Jeremiah 23:32Behold, I am against them that prophesy false dreams, saith the LORD, and do tell them, and cause my people to err by their lies, and by their lightness; yet I sent them not, nor commanded them: therefore they shall not profit this people at all, saith the LORD.2 Peter 2:3And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.2 Peter 2:1But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.1 Peter 1:10Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:Romans 10:15And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
Historical Context
Ancient sheepfolds had one guarded entrance. Shepherds entered openly through the door while thieves climbed walls secretly. The imagery was familiar to Jesus' agricultural audience.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you recognize legitimate spiritual authority versus false teachers?
- What characterizes those who enter through proper means versus those who sneak in?
- How does your church ensure proper authorization for spiritual leadership?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus begins His Good Shepherd discourse by contrasting true and false shepherds. The true shepherd enters by the door; thieves and robbers climb in elsewhere. This establishes authority's source - legitimate shepherds are recognized and authorized, while false teachers use deception to access sheep. Reformed emphasis on proper ordination and calling finds support here.