John 10:9

In this verse he repeates the assertion, that he is the door, and clears it with relation to the sheep, shewing that whoever entereth by him, shall be put in a secure condition, till they obtain eternal salvation, and shall be abundantly refreshed and fed. And, by this he points out the necessity of pastours entering by him, and their pointing him out as the only way of salvation, which is the principal scope of the doctrine. To go in and out, is not to be strained here, as signifying that they who enter into the fold of the Church, may lawfully go out again; but, as sheep are cared for by their shepherd, secured in their fold, brought out to pasture, and watched over there; so they should finde in him protection and refreshment; and as men in times of peace go out and in securely about their affaires, so should they walk securely under his shadow. See Psal. 121.8. Whence learn, 1. The absolute necessity of Christ is a doctrine never enough inculcate upon lost sinners, who either lie secure, dreaming of Gods favour, or look to make their peace by other means without him. Therefore is it repeated I am the door. 2. It is not enough that men be convinced, and in their judgement do acknowledge the necessity of Christ, and the great priviledge of accesse through him; unlesse in their practice they emprove and make use hereof; for, he is the door, that by him men may enter in, and not stand afar off, commending the great priviledge only. 3. Such as come to God through Christ, and do seek salvation only through him, shall be preserved in all hazards, till they attain to eternal salvation; for, by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved. 4. Such as come to God through Christ, have allowance of much spiritual freedome, tranquility, and security of minde, in all their Christian course, till they arrive at their compleat rest; for, he shall go in and out, doth import this, that he shall not be shut up, but at freedome, that he may go about his lawful affairs, and may do it without anxiety or feare. 5. Such also as do thus come to God, will finde such satisfaction and spiritual refreshment for making them grow in grace, as they shall not need to complain, or betake themselves to other comforts; for, he shall finde pasture.