“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness.”
In plain words: A thief comes only to rob, hurt and ruin things, but Jesus came to give people a life that is rich, whole and full.
What John 10:10 means.
The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy, but Jesus came so we could have life to the full.
Common questions about John 10:10
Who is the thief Jesus is talking about?
In this part of John, Jesus is talking about shepherds and sheep. A thief sneaks in to use the sheep for himself. Jesus was speaking about leaders who took advantage of people instead of caring for them. The Bible also warns that there is a real enemy who wants to harm people, [[1 Peter 5:8]]. But notice the contrast. The thief takes, and Jesus gives. He is the good shepherd who cares for his sheep so much that he gives his own life for them, [[John 10:11]].
Apply it today: Read John 10:1-15 slowly and notice what the good shepherd does for his sheep.
What does "life in all its fullness" really mean?
Jesus does not mean a life with no problems or a life full of money. He said himself that we will have trouble in this world, [[John 16:33]]. A full life is life the way God made it to be: knowing him, being loved, and having peace, purpose and real joy, even on hard days. Jesus says that knowing God is the heart of eternal life, [[John 17:3]]. Good things like family, friends, work and rest are gifts from God, and they are richest when we receive them with him.
Apply it today: Name one good thing in your life today and thank God for it.
How do I begin to have this life?
Jesus describes himself as a shepherd whose sheep know his voice and follow him, [[John 10:27-28]]. This life starts with trusting Jesus: believing he is who he says he is, that he died for our sins and rose again, and turning toward him. You can do that any time, in your own words. He invites, and he never forces anyone. Because a shepherd keeps his sheep close, it also helps to walk with other believers who read the Bible and pray together.
Apply it today: Tell Jesus in your own words that you want to know him and trust him more.
Ask anything about it.
Every question gets a clear answer in seconds, and a way to live it today.
Live it today.
Ask Jesus today for the full life He came to give.
Pray it back.
Jesus, You came to give me life to the full. I receive it.
Carry it all day.
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