Part Three: The Shepherd and the Thief

“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”
John 10:10

The devil is a thief.
Jesus uses the word “thief” in the context of a lurking, prowling predator who comes to harass His sheep.

I am in the flock of Christ, therefore I fully expect Satan to harass my life, my family, my church, and my God given purpose on this planet.

Jesus highlighted three main roles of Satan. If the devil was applying for a job, then these things would be on his resume:
“I have vast experience and deep knowledge in the areas of theft, killing, and complete destruction.”

In John 10:10, Jesus Christ describes the thief and then Himself. He wants us to see the difference. He wants us to see the stark contrast between the Destroyer and the Redeemer.

Satan doesn’t care about you at all.
When he tempts you with sins that give you pleasure, he does it to destroy SOMETHING in your life: Position, Possession, Relationships, Purpose, Health, Finances, Time, Talent, Joy, Focus…and a million other juicy targets.
Satan is a creepy, prowling serial killer.

Christ is loving and kind.
He’ll nurse the wounds of a wounded sinner and gently place him in His flock, taking care to nourish him to full health…and He watches to make sure the thief can’t annihlate His precious flock.
That’s what the GOOD shepherd does.

My Shepherd is the best.
He came to not only give me life,
but ABUNDANT life.
In your face, devil.