MESSAGE: The Gate                             Date: 10/26/2025

SERIES: I Am 

COMMUNICATOR: Pastor Kevin Geer

CHECK-IN & SHARE WINS: What was one highlight from your week? Where have you seen Jesus at work—in your life or in the world around you? Celebrating wins helps fuel God’s mission and inspire others to join in.

WORDS THAT IGNITE: Gate 

• The Greek word: pylē (πύλη) — means “gate,” “doorway,” or “entrance.”
• Access/entry — how one enters God’s presence or kingdom (John 10:9; Matthew 7:13–14).
• Protection/security — a guarded boundary that keeps out danger (Nehemiah 3, Psalm 100:4).
• Decision/choice — a place of choosing the right path (Matthew 7:13–14).
• Authority/justice — city gates were where leaders made decisions and settled disputes (Ruth 4:1–2, Proverbs 31:23).
• How will you put this word into action and let it ignite your life this week?

________________________________________________________________________________________

THINK, DISCUSS, LIVE: These questions are great for personal reflection, group discussion, or both. They’re meant to help you grow in your faith, deepen your connection with your Jesus friends, and live it out in the world around you. 

1. What’s one “gate” or doorway you’d love to walk through if it could take you anywhere in the world and at any time?
2. Read John 10:1-2. Jesus said, “I am the Gate.” Gates are about entering and exiting—what’s something you’ve recently stepped away from, and something new you’ve stepped into?
3. Read John 10:9–10. When life doesn’t feel “abundant” or blessed, what do you think gets in the way? How do you refresh your faith and mindset?
4. What are some “thieves and robbers” in our culture today that try to steal, kill, or destroy our joy? Media, finances, anxiety over current events, hobbies, social status, etc.?
5. Read Ezekiel 34:11–16. What does God promise to do for His people? What specific things does He say He will do for them?
6. In what ways do you see Jesus protecting, guiding, or providing for you like a shepherd?
7. The shepherd checked each sheep as they came through the gate. Read 1 John 1:7–10. How does this connect to having a daily “gate moment” with Jesus? What might that look like for you?
8. Look at John 10:3-5. How can you learn to recognize and follow Jesus’ voice in everyday life? What’s one real, practical way—not just the usual “read your Bible and pray” answer? 
9. Jesus invites us to follow His way—the narrow gate that leads to life. What are some signs that tell you’re on the right path? Make a list and see how you are doing. 

________________________________________________________________________________________

TAKING NEW GROUND: This week, look for simple ways to “enter the narrow gate.”

• Allow Jesus to examine your heart and life (1 John 1:9; James 5:16)
• Make time to listen to the Shepherd’s voice. “Here I am Lord, what do I need to hear?”
• Who can you be a “gate” for this week—a safe person who offers direction, encouragement, or a listening ear to someone going through a life challenge?

________________________________________________________________________________________

PRAYER OPTIONS:

• Prayer Partnership: What’s on your heart that we can partner with you and bring it to the Lord? 
• 1 & 1:  One thing to celebrate, one thing to bring to God.
• Praise Sentences: Short prayers thanking God, then pray for shared needs.
• Prayer Clusters: Groups of 2–3, share requests, pray together, and encourage each other during the week.

________________________________________________________________________________________

NEED TO READ MORE BIBLE? 

• Read through the New Testament in one year – 1 chapter a day, 5 days a week, plus a bonus passage.
• Find it on the Canvas Church app (“Bible Reading Plan”). Listening option available.
• Read it. Think about it. Live it out.

________________________________________________________________________________________

CANVAS + Looking for some great content to help you grow in your faith? 

Check out Canvas Plus, a totally FREE content streaming platform found exclusively in the Canvas App.