“I AM [the Good Shepherd]” John 10:1-21_ Shepherds in the ancient world had a close bond with their sheep. Lambs were raised almost like children with plenty of hugs and affection. The shepherd would call his sheep by name, and the sheep would follow him because they knew that protection and nourishment came from the shepherd’s skillful care. The sheep also responded to the shepherd ’s voice because they knew he loved them and that he was concerned about their well-being. Security and satisfaction came from staying close to the shepherd. [Group discussion starter] What person in your family or circle of friends makes you feel most secure and loved? What does that person do to convey their affection? Jesus uses the familiar image of a shepherd and his sheep to illustrate his love for his followers and our value to him. We are his pr ized possession – a possessi...
“I AM [the Light] John 8:12-30_ Years ago, a few of us decided to walk through Netherton tunnel, with just the aid of our torches on our phones. It started off absolutely fine. There was a decent pa thway, a sturdy handrail , and plenty of light coming in from behind us through the opening of the tunnel. However, about half-way through, the handrail disappea red, the path got decidedly worse, there was no light coming in from behind us (and we weren’t far enough along to see any light in front of us) , and those mobile phone torches? Absolutely rubbish! We did finally make it through to the other side , but we’ve never done it again since! [Discussion-starter question] What is you most vivid memory involving a dark place? Jesus was not afraid to defend the truth even in the face of his enemies. In this passage Jesus makes a series of claims that his opponents try to chall...