Generally, Parents are possessive of their children and vouch for them. When a teenager was involved in a crime, his mother refused to believe he did it and also asserted that he would not do evil. However, he was found to be guilty with evidence in the court, yet the mother did not believe it. In contrast, the Good Shepherd confidently asserts about His sheep. “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” (John 10:27) The Saviour’s assertions are not empty words but truth.
My: The Good Shepherd is the owner, redeemer, and the Master. The disciples are ransomed, redeemed, and purchased by His blood. (I Peter 1:19) He gave His life as a sacrifice for saving sinners, died, was buried, and rose again.
Sheep: In fact, it is the most stupid animal, the most dependent animal. Sheep are always injury-prone. Sheep do not have a sense of direction. Hence, go astray again and often (Isaiah 53:6)
My voice: The Good Shepherd speaks to the sheep with a clear voice amid the noise in the world. “And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it.’ when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.” (Isaiah 30:21)
I know them: The Lord knows His sheep by name. (John 10:14) Disciples of the Lord are not anonymous devotees in the massive crowd. Each disciple is known by the Lord by name and has all the details about them. The disciples are engraved, and their profiles are in His palms. (Isaiah 49:16)
They follow me: The Good Shepherd leads, clearing the way. He does not drive them from behind like slave drivers. Though when sheep are behind, the Good Shepherd could watch over them. He protects them from predators.
Obedient sheep: All disciples ought to be obedient Sheep. Those who know the Lord will keep His commandments. If not, they are liars, and they are not walking in truth and are not following His footsteps. (I John 2:4-6)
Am I a listening, obedient sheep?