The Good Shepherd is recognizable by his credentials. In contrast to thieves, the shepherd enters the sheep pen by the gate; he is known by the gatekeeper. The sheep know his voice and will follow only him. Jesus entered through the gate of the law and the prophets. Isaiah had prophesied that the work of the Messiah would include opening the eyes of the blind. Furthermore, the identity of Jesus was confirmed by the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God was on Jesus as he taught the word of God and performed miraculous signs. The Pharisees were like thieves who cast the blind man out of the synagogue; they stole the man's spiritual life. But our Lord found him and led him to salvation. The man recognized his shepherd's voice and believed.

Shepherds would lie across the opening of their sheep pen at night to prevent sheep from wandering out and predators from entering. Jesus says, "I am the gate..." Through Jesus, and Jesus alone, we can enter into eternal life. He protects and provides for us - leading us to rich, luscious pastures. While thieves operate out of pure self-interest, shepherds have only their flock in mind. Our shepherd wants us to have life to its fullest.