John 10:16
And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.
John 10:16
John 10:16 expands the shepherding metaphor to include “other sheep” not yet part of this fold. Jesus anticipates a global, inclusive mission: there are believers beyond the immediate Jewish audience, and he must bring them in, forming one unified flock under one shepherd. The imagery of “fold” underscores the social and religious boundaries of the time, where Jews and Gentiles often lived in separate communities. Jesus’ proclamation that “they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd” signals the breaking down of barriers and the expansion of God’s people to include all who respond to Christ’s voice. This verse foreshadows the Gentile inclusion that shapes the early church’s mission.
Theologically, this verse validates the universal scope of the gospel. It asserts that salvation isn’t limited by ethnicity or status but initiated by Christ’s voice summoning people from diverse backgrounds into one community. It reinforces the unity of the church under Christ as the single shepherd, a unity that transcends human divisions. This aligns with the New Testament emphasis on reconciliation, multi-ethnic believers, and the Spirit’s work in drawing people together. It also points to mission as intrinsic to Jesus’ ministry—gathering and guiding a diverse people into the one household of God.
Practically, this invites churches to embrace inclusion and cross-cultural fellowship. If you lead a ministry, consider how your community welcomes newcomers who aren’t like you. Do you offer pathways for people from different backgrounds to hear Jesus’ voice and belong? For individuals, reflect on biases or comfort zones that hinder belonging. The gospel invites you to listen for Jesus’ voice in diverse contexts—diaspora communities, immigrants, or people with different life experiences—and invite them into the same family. Embrace unity with humility, learning from others while keeping Christ as the common shepherd.
Cross-References: Galatians 3:28; Ephesians 2:11-22; Romans 11:13-24; John 4:21-24; 1 Corinthians 12:13