John 10:1

JOHN—NOTE ON John 10:1 The sheepfold was usually a courtyard near or beside a house, bordered by a stone wall, in which one or more families kept their sheep. Caves were also used. Sheepfolds might have a formal door and would be guarded at the entrance by a “gatekeeper” (v. John 10:3) or by the shepherd himself (see vv. John 10:7). A thief enters secretly while a robber forces his way in.