What does "will come in and go out" signify in a believer's life? Setting the Verse in Context John 10:9—“I am the gate. If anyone enters through Me, he will be saved. He will come in and go out and find pasture.” Jesus has just contrasted Himself with “thieves and robbers” (v. 8) and is preparing to call Himself the Good Shepherd (v. 11). The imagery is of a sheepfold: a secure enclosure at night, an open range by day. Understanding “will come in and go out” The simple pastoral picture unfolds several rich truths for everyday discipleship: • Continuous access to the Shepherd • Unbroken security under His watch • Freedom to move through life’s varied arenas • Provision for every need—spiritual, physical, emotional Freedom within the Shepherd’s Care • Freedom from bondage to sin—entering the fold means rescue (John 8:36). • Freedom for purposeful living—going out under His leadership mirrors the Great Commission lifestyle (Matthew 28:19–20). • Freedom unthreatened by fear—“Perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18). Security of Salvation and Daily Life • “Saved” in v. 9 is a completed act with ongoing results; the gate never shuts against the true believer (John 10:28–29). • The phrase echoes Israel’s blessing: “Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out” (Deuteronomy 28:6). • Psalm 121:8 reinforces the promise: “The LORD will guard your coming and going, both now and forevermore.” Provision and Pasture for the Soul • “Find pasture” pictures nourishment and rest (Psalm 23:1–2). • Daily refreshment in Scripture and prayer flows naturally from living near the Shepherd (Jeremiah 15:16). • Physical needs are not ignored—“Your heavenly Father knows that you need them” (Matthew 6:32). Living Out the Promise Today • Start each day “coming in”—drawing near through worship and Word. • Step out into work, family, ministry “going out”—confident of His presence. • Return often—moments of quiet throughout the day keep the soul anchored. • Rest at night—entrusting every concern to the Shepherd who never slumbers (Psalm 121:4). Complementary Scriptures • Numbers 27:17—Israel needed a leader “who will bring them in and bring them out,” foreshadowing Christ. • Hebrews 13:20–21—“the great Shepherd of the sheep” equips us “for every good work.” • Ephesians 2:18—“Through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.” The promise of “coming in and going out” encapsulates a believer’s entire journey—secure salvation, daily liberty, and ongoing provision—always under the tender, vigilant eye of the Shepherd who is Himself the Gate. |
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