The discourse which develops from the parable begins with another 'I AM' saying -1 am the gate for the sheep.' Only through Jesus Christ is there entry into God's Kingdom. The next 'I AM' saying follows in 10:11; I AM the Good Shepherd.' The Good Shepherd is ready to die for his sheep (as he soon will). The hired man of verse 13 may be understood to represent those in positions of leadership who betray Christ and his people because of cowardice or lack of commitment. From the spiritual union between the Father and the Son there goes out the uniting love between Christ and his people (10:14-15). The Church among the Gentiles (John 4:42, Galatians 3:28) is predicted in 10: 16. The Church sees in the death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ the free obedience of the Son to the Father so that he may carry out the Father's will. Their eternal relationship of love reaches out to the Church (10: 17-18).

The controversy about Jesus amongst the people continued (10: 19-21).