Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 10:2

"But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep." — John 10:2 (ASV)

Jesus introduces this section with a solemn affirmation (“I tell you the truth”), emphasizing the importance of the teaching that the allegory contains, particularly regarding the ministry of Jesus himself. The imagery of the first two paragraphs is based on the concept of the “sheep pen.” It was usually a rough stone or mud-brick structure, only partially roofed, or a cave in the hills. It had a single opening through which the sheep passed when they came in for the night. The pen served to protect them against thieves, robbers, and wild beasts.

Thieves, who would have no right of access by the gate, used other means to gain entrance. The shepherd entered by the gate, the lawful method of entry. Jesus was contrasting himself with the false messiahs who by pretense or violence were attempting to gain control of the people. He came as the legitimate heir of the chosen seed and claimed to be the fulfillment of the OT revelation.