- The Sheep Gate
This is the gate where the sacrificial animals would be brought into Jerusalem. Notice also that it was built specifically by the High Priest and his fellow priests, thus it is Jesus who is our High Priest, and He is building His Church.
Additionally, it is the only Gate without bolts or bars. This symbolises the most important things we need to know about Christ: He is not only our Great High Priest, and our Good Shepherd, but also the ‘Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world’ (John 1:29), and Christ is the door (John 10:9) by which all people must enter if they are to be saved (Acts 4:12), but also that everyone has access to Jesus when they call upon his name: Salvation is for all and open to all.
When Jesus prayed in John 17:17, ‘Sanctify them in the truth, your word is truth,’ we notice that the Sheep Gate was the only gate that was consecrated, set apart, or sanctified.
Finally, notice something delicious: The Sheep Gate is mentioned first and last in Nehemiah 3:1 & 32. Jesus is the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End; the Author and Perfecter of our faith.
Next time you hear someone say, “It’s all about Jesus!” It really is and in very profound ways. Have you entered through this Gate yet?
Gralefrit Theology 