My husband is a very talented and handy guy.  When I met him in Bible college, he was known for his knowledge with mechanics and repair work.  In fact, I had trouble with my little VW Rabbit and when I inquired about someone taking a look at it, everyone suggested Walter Selke!  Before we were married, Walter worked in construction, primarily as a framer but he could probably do all aspects of building and installation of plumbing and electrical, too.  Since we've become homeowners, he has tackled most repairs and remodeling, including building an addition on our house and a large garage/workshop.

If he is unsure about how something works or what is needed for repairs, my husband is very resourceful.  Before the internet, he knew people who could help him or he would simply use the "trial and error" method. His experience in small town and agricultural-based communities means his skills are homegrown and adaptable to all kinds of situations.

But when it comes to Biblical times, we may not have the understanding of agriculture, architecture or cultural context of the Middle East.  What do we know about mud, stone or brick construction?  What experience do we have with ancient farming practices or animal husbandry?  Many references Jesus used in His teachings and stories were common to the people but to us in the 21st century in North America, we are clueless.

Jesus claimed these seven "I Am" statements about His identity and one in John 10:7 makes little sense to us today.   As I listened to a speaker on YouTube (Priscilla Schirer), I gained a lot of insight through her study of the historical context of Jesus' statement.

"Therefore Jesus said again, 'Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep.'"

I picture the kind of gate my husband has constructed of wood, on hinges, that swings open and must fasten to keep it closed. How is Jesus comparing Himself to being a gate?  (Some versions of Scripture use the word "door" rather than gate.)  Priscilla explained that in Biblical times, shepherds would often have up to 100 sheep they cared for in the pastures and remote places.  During the day they grazed and hung out around a water source, but at night, the shepherd would round up the sheep and keep them in a stone enclosure.  The practice of the day was that several shepherds may feed and water their sheep in the same location and at night perhaps up to 10 shepherds with 100 sheep each would stay inside the one enclosure.  Stone walls would be several feet high; the opening was narrow and had no door or gate.  One shepherd would spend the night with the sheep, while the others would find food and lodging in a nearby village.  For safety, the shepherd would stretch himself across the opening to sleep, and would protect and guard the sheep from predators and thieves.

Earlier in the passage of John 10, Jesus says that if anyone would try to come in another way rather than through the one gate, or door, he "is a thief and a robber." (verse 1 & 8)  Jesus claims to be the only true gate or door into the sheepfold.  All others are imposters, liars and cannot be trusted.  Anyone familiar with the industry of shepherding would agree that predators would try to sneak in other ways; those who come through the one gate would legitimately belong in the sheepfold.

Verse 9a is a very clear message to you and me:  "I am the gate; whoever enters through Me will be saved." Jesus fulfills the role of gatekeeper, doorway and Good Shepherd all in one illustration.  As we consider who Jesus is during the Advent season, let's meditate on the goodness and uniqueness of our Lord to be the gate we can enter to eternal life.