Sheep Not of This Sheep Pen

Today we’re looking at a passage that has stirred all sorts of ideas (and controversies) over the centuries. Jesus is speaking enigmatically about having “sheep that are not of this sheep pen" and people have wondered if he was talking about people from other religions or even space aliens or perhaps just the God-fearing Gentiles. Jesus doesn’t talk about this elsewhere - this is it.

Our sermon series has focused on how there are different orbits - some nearer and some farther, but neither bearing judgment from God. Perhaps Jesus is speaking of those whose orbit is further away than the disciples and how they matter to Jesus, too.

But let’s look at this passage with a sacred and willing imagination.

Are you a sheep of this pen? Are you a sheep not of this pen? Why must Jesus bring them and make one flock - and what would that be like anyway?

Take a few breaths. Do some wondering. Listen to his voice.

I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. - John 10:16