Good Shepherd

The teacher told the people a story about sheep and shepherds. He said, "The real shepherd enters through the gate where the sheep are kept. The gatekeeper lets him in, and the sheep know his voice. He calls each one by name and leads them out. When he walks ahead, they follow him because they trust him. They will not follow a stranger—they will run away." Some didn't understand. So he explained, "I am like the gate for the sheep. If anyone comes through me, they will be safe. They will find green pastures. Others come only to steal and harm, but I came to give life—and life abundantly." He continued to say, "I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep. A hired worker runs when danger comes, but the good shepherd stays. I know my sheep and they know me. I choose to lay down my life for them and I have the power to take it up again." The people argued among themselves and asked, "Are you the one we've been waiting for? Tell us!" The teacher said, "I've already shown you by the things I do, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. My sheep hear my voice and I give them eternal life, and no one can take them out of my hand. I and the father are one."