John 10:10

John 10:10

New International Version (NIV)
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy;
I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

New Living Translation (NLT)
The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy.
My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.

New King James Version (NKJV)
The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.
I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

World English Bible (WEB)
The thief only comes to steal, kill, and destroy.
I came that they may have life, and may have it abundantly.

What is the meaning of John 10:10?
In this verse, Jesus is speaking and contrasting Himself with the thief, who represents Satan or evil forces. Jesus states that the thief’s purpose is to steal, kill, and destroy. On the other hand, Jesus declares that He has come to give life and that His followers can have life more abundantly through Him.

The verse conveys the message of Jesus as the giver of life and the source of abundant living. It implies that Jesus offers not only physical life but also spiritual and eternal life. He came to bring wholeness, fulfillment, and a rich, meaningful existence to those who believe in Him.

By describing the thief’s intentions to steal, kill, and destroy, Jesus acknowledges the presence of evil and the challenges that people face in life. However, He presents Himself as the answer, offering a contrasting message of hope, salvation, and abundant life.

The “abundant life” mentioned in the verse refers to a life characterized by the fullness of God’s blessings, grace, and love. It includes spiritual blessings, such as forgiveness, reconciliation with God, and eternal life, as well as the experience of God’s presence, guidance, and provision in every aspect of life.

Overall, John 10:10 highlights Jesus’ role as the giver of abundant life and contrasts it with the destructive intentions of the thief. It encourages believers to place their trust in Jesus, who offers a life of purpose, fulfillment, and abundant blessings both in this world and in the eternal realm.