That they might have Life

When Jesus’ listeners heard Him announce that He had come into the world in order that

they might have life they must have recognized immediately that He was obviously not

referring to physical existence. But they had no idea what He did mean (vs. 6). Do we?

I. Facts of life

A. Scripture says, “...through Him (the Word) all things were made.” (John 1:3)

B. It also teaches, “...in Him was life and that life was the light of men.” (John 1:4)

C. So Scripture teaches that creation depends on Him for existence.

D. And living creatures including humanity are totally dependent on Him for life.

II. Forfeiture of life

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.” (vs.10:10a, see Eph. 2:1-5)

A. Life was forfeited through “transgressions and sins.” (Eph. 2:1; Gen. 3:11)

B. Deadness drifted into the “ways of this world.” (Eph. 2:2)

C. Disobedience became habitual through following the wrong spirit. (Eph. 2:2)

D. Desires were perverted and craved satisfaction, thoughts twisted. (Eph. 2:3)

E. Dire consequences followed as “we were objects of God’s wrath.” (Eph. 2:3)

F. The one who stole, killed and destroyed succeeded – Jesus came to reverse it!

III. Fulness of life

“I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.”

A. “The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (vss. 10:11,15,17)

B. His death is voluntary (“no one takes it from me”) and vicarious (“for the sheep”).

C. It is victorious (“only to take it up again”).

D. In His dying He assumed our death and absorbed the “wrath of God.”

E. In His taking His life up again (resurrection) He defeated the robber.

F. And He gives His life to all “who will listen to (His) voice.” (vs. 10:17)

G. “Life to the full” is eternal life – the life of the age to come. (vs. 10:28)

H. “Life to the full” is a life of assurance – “they shall never perish.”

I. “Life to the full” is a life of being known and knowing. (vs. 10:27)

J. “Life to the full” is a life of direction, purpose and fulfilment (“they follow me”).

{the reason for the season}

that they might have life

john 10:1-10