The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep — the authorized leader enters properly, with permission and appointment, establishing the criterion for authentic pastoral ministry. John distinguishes sharply between methods: legitimate shepherds enter through established authority, not through deception or force. The shepherd has a right to the sheep and the sheep have a right to a true shepherd. This reflects the OT expectation of Israel's rightful king and priest coming through proper channels, fulfilling what the false shepherds of Ezekiel's time failed to do.

COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS

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