John Chapter 10 · Verse 9
I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.
Original Language Analysis
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θύρα·
the door
G2374
θύρα·
the door
Strong's:
G2374
Word #:
4 of 17
a portal or entrance (the opening or the closure, literally or figuratively)
δι'
by
G1223
δι'
by
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
5 of 17
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
ἐάν
if
G1437
ἐάν
if
Strong's:
G1437
Word #:
7 of 17
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
σωθήσεται
he shall be saved
G4982
σωθήσεται
he shall be saved
Strong's:
G4982
Word #:
10 of 17
to save, i.e., deliver or protect (literally or figuratively)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
11 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
13 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
15 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
John 14:6Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.Ephesians 2:18For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.John 10:7Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.John 10:1Verily, 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.Psalms 95:7For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice,Isaiah 40:11He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.Zechariah 10:12And I will strengthen them in the LORD; and they shall walk up and down in his name, saith the LORD.
Historical Context
The phrase 'go in and out' was a Hebrew idiom for living freely and securely (Deuteronomy 28:6; Psalm 121:8). First-century Jews under Roman occupation would appreciate the promise of true freedom through the Good Shepherd.
Questions for Reflection
- How have you experienced the salvation, freedom, and provision Christ promises as the Door?
- What false 'doors' do people trust for spiritual security?
Analysis & Commentary
Christ repeats 'I am the door' for emphasis, adding explanation: entrance through Him brings salvation (spiritual security), free access ('go in and out'), and provision ('find pasture'). The three-fold blessing mirrors the Aaronic blessing (Numbers 6:24-26). Going 'in and out' suggests freedom and security—sheep don't fear entering/leaving when the True Shepherd guards them. This contrasts with the false shepherds (Pharisees) who bring bondage, not freedom.