John 10 - NIV LifeConnect Study Bible

10:1–30 These verses should be understood in light of the Old Testament concept of a “shepherd” as a royal caretaker of God’s people. The concept of a ruler being the shepherd of his nation and its people was common in the Ancient Near East (see the note on Isa 44:28).

10:1 The sheep pen was an enclosure with only one entrance. Its walls kept the sheep from wandering away.

10:3–4 The gatekeeper was apparently in charge of a large sheep pen, where several flocks were kept.