The Good Shepherd

John chapters 8-10 record an extended debate with the Pharisees as Jesus neared the completion of His public ministry. The debate began when He claimed to be “the light of the world” (8:12). He then went on to prove His claim by opening the eyes of a blind man (ch.9), causing even more controversy. In John 10, the debate heightened as Jesus claimed to be “the good shepherd,” in contrast to the leaders who were “thieves and robbers” that took advantage of the sheep for their own gain. This good vs. bad shepherd discussion has roots in Ezekiel 34 where God pronounced judgment on a past generation of Israel’s spiritual leaders for being “worthless shepherds” that devour the flock, instead of caring for it.