John 10:3

KJV

To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.

KJV (with Strong's)

To him {G5129} the porter {G2377} openeth {G455}; and {G2532} the sheep {G4263} hear {G191} his {G846} voice {G5456}: and {G2532} he calleth {G2564} his own {G2398} sheep {G4263} by {G2596} name {G3686}, and {G2532} leadeth {G1806} them {G846} out {G1806}.

Complete Jewish Bible

This is the one the gate-keeper admits, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep, each one by name, and leads them out.

Berean Standard Bible

The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen for his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.

American Standard Version

To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 10:3, a foundational verse in Jesus' discourse on the Good Shepherd, vividly portrays the intimate and authentic relationship between the true shepherd and his flock. It describes the legitimate entry of the shepherd into the sheepfold via the porter, the sheep's immediate recognition and response to his distinct voice, and the shepherd's personal knowledge of each sheep, calling them by name and leading them out to pasture. This verse establishes the characteristics of genuine spiritual leadership and the discerning trust of true followers.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Jesus' extended discourse in [John 10](/john/10 "John 10 - The Good Shepherd Discourse"), which immediately follows the dramatic narrative of the healing of the man born blind in [John 9](/john/9 "John 9 - Healing the Man Born Blind"). In chapter 9, Jesus confronts the spiritual blindness of the Pharisees, who reject Him despite His miraculous works. He then transitions into this parable, using the imagery of a sheepfold to contrast Himself, the true Shepherd, with those who are "thieves and robbers" ([John 10:1](/john/10-1 "John 10:1 - Thieves and Robbers")). Verse 3 specifically details the actions of the legitimate shepherd, setting the stage for Jesus' subsequent powerful declarations about His identity as the "door of the sheep" ([John 10:7](/john/10-7 "John 10:7 - Jesus, the Door")) and the "Good Shepherd" ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery of a shepherd and sheep was deeply resonant in ancient Israel, a predominantly agrarian society. Sheepfolds were common, often open-air enclosures or caves, where multiple flocks might be gathered overnight for protection from predators and thieves. A "porter" or gatekeeper would guard the entrance. Shepherds had a profound, personal relationship with their sheep, often knowing each one individually, even by name, a practice attested to by ancient sources. They would lead their sheep out to pasture in the morning, rather than drive them from behind, guiding them to fresh grazing and water. This intimate, protective, and guiding role of the shepherd was a familiar and cherished metaphor for leadership, especially divine leadership, throughout the Old Testament.
* **Key Themes:** John 10:3 contributes significantly to several key themes within John's Gospel and biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Authority and Legitimacy**, as the true shepherd gains authorized access through the porter, implying divine sanction for Jesus' ministry. Secondly, it highlights the **Personal and Intimate Relationship** between the shepherd and his sheep, emphasizing God's individual knowledge and care for each believer, as seen in the shepherd calling "his own sheep by name." Thirdly, the verse develops the theme of **Recognition and Obedience**, where the sheep "hear his voice" and follow, symbolizing the discerning faith and responsive obedience of those who truly belong to Christ. Finally, it portrays **Divine Guidance and Provision**, as the shepherd "leadeth them out," signifying Jesus' role in leading His followers to spiritual nourishment, safety, and abundant life ([John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - Abundant Life")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Porter (Greek, _thyrōrós'_):** This term refers to the gate-warden or doorkeeper. In the context of the parable, the porter's role is to control access to the sheepfold, allowing only the legitimate shepherd to enter. The fact that the porter "openeth" to the true shepherd signifies divine authentication and authorized entry, contrasting with those who attempt to "climb up some other way" ([John 10:1](/john/10-1 "John 10:1 - Thieves and Robbers")).
* **Calleth (Greek, _kaléō'_):** This verb means "to call" (often aloud) and implies an invitation, summons, or naming. The shepherd "calleth his own sheep by name," highlighting a profoundly personal and individual relationship. It's not a generic call to an undifferentiated flock, but a specific, intimate address that underscores the shepherd's deep knowledge and care for each individual sheep. This reflects God's personal knowledge of His people.
* **Leadeth out (Greek, _exágō'_):** Derived from "ek" (out of) and "agō" (to lead), this word means "to lead forth" or "bring out." It describes the shepherd's active role in guiding his sheep. Unlike other cultures where sheep might be driven, the ancient Near Eastern shepherd led his flock, demonstrating a gentle, protective, and purposeful guidance towards safety, sustenance, and new pastures. Spiritually, it signifies Christ's active leadership in guiding believers to spiritual life and provision.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"To him the porter openeth":** This clause establishes the legitimacy of the shepherd. The porter, acting as a gatekeeper, grants access only to the rightful shepherd, implying divine authorization for Jesus' ministry. It distinguishes Him from "thieves and robbers" who would attempt to enter illicitly.
* **"and the sheep hear his voice":** This signifies the deep recognition and trust between the shepherd and his sheep. The sheep, being familiar with their shepherd, discern his unique voice amidst others. Spiritually, it represents the ability of true believers to recognize and respond to the authoritative and loving voice of Jesus, distinguishing it from competing or deceptive voices.
* **"and he calleth his own sheep by name":** This emphasizes the intensely personal and intimate nature of the relationship. The shepherd knows each of his sheep individually, not just as a collective. This highlights God's personal knowledge, care, and affectionate relationship with each of His followers, affirming their individual value and identity in Him.
* **"and leadeth them out":** This final clause describes the shepherd's active role as a guide and provider. He leads his sheep to safety and nourishment, symbolizing Jesus' role in guiding His followers to spiritual sustenance, protection, and purpose. It speaks of His gentle, proactive leadership that ensures the well-being of His flock.

#### Literary Devices
John 10:3 is rich in **Metaphor** and **Symbolism**. The entire passage functions as an extended **Allegory**, where the literal elements of a shepherd, sheep, and sheepfold represent deeper spiritual realities. The "shepherd" is a clear metaphor for Jesus Christ, while the "sheep" symbolize His followers, those who belong to Him. The "porter" can be seen as symbolizing God the Father, who grants legitimate access to the Son, or perhaps the Holy Spirit, who opens understanding. The act of "calling by name" is a powerful **Symbol** of intimate, personal knowledge and relationship, echoing Old Testament themes of God knowing His people. The "voice" of the shepherd symbolizes Jesus' teachings, commands, and the Holy Spirit's promptings, which His followers discern. The action of "leading them out" symbolizes Christ's guidance to spiritual provision and salvation. This allegorical framework allows Jesus to convey profound theological truths through familiar, relatable imagery.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 10:3 profoundly articulates the nature of the relationship between Christ and His followers, emphasizing personal knowledge, intimate connection, and discerning obedience. It highlights that true spiritual leadership is characterized by a shepherd who knows his flock individually, cares for them deeply, and leads them proactively to life and safety. Conversely, true discipleship is marked by the ability to recognize and respond to the unique voice of the Shepherd, trusting His guidance above all others. This verse establishes a fundamental aspect of the covenant relationship: God's personal initiative and intimate knowledge of His people, and their responsive faith.

* [Psalm 23:1-3](/psalms/23-1-3 "Psalm 23:1-3 - The Lord is My Shepherd") – Echoes the theme of the Lord as a personal shepherd who leads, guides, and provides for His flock.
* [Isaiah 40:11](/isaiah/40-11 "Isaiah 40:11 - God's Gentle Shepherd Care") – Describes God's tender care for His people, leading the young and carrying the lambs, much like a shepherd.
* [John 10:27](/john/10-27 "John 10:27 - My Sheep Hear My Voice") – Reinforces the core concept that Jesus' "sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John 10:3 offers profound comfort and a clear call to discerning faith for believers today. It assures us that Jesus, our Good Shepherd, knows us not merely as part of a crowd, but intimately and personally, "by name." This truth affirms our individual worth and identity in Christ, reminding us that we are seen, known, and cherished by God. In a world saturated with competing voices, ideologies, and distractions, the challenge for us lies in cultivating the spiritual sensitivity to "hear His voice." This requires intentional, consistent engagement with Scripture, prayer, and listening to the Holy Spirit's promptings. As we learn to discern His voice, we are called to trust His leadership and follow Him, knowing that He will always lead us to spiritual nourishment, protection, and abundant life. This verse encourages a deep, abiding, and personal relationship with our Lord, marked by trust, obedience, and an awareness of His constant, loving guidance.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I experience Jesus "calling me by name" in my daily life?**
* **What are the competing voices in my life that make it difficult to "hear His voice"? How can I better discern and prioritize His leading?**
* **How does the image of Jesus "leading me out" to pasture inform my understanding of His guidance and provision in my life?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the "porter" in this verse, and who does he represent?**

Answer: The "porter" (Greek: _thyrōrós_), or gatekeeper, is significant because he controls access to the sheepfold, allowing only the legitimate shepherd to enter. In the context of Jesus' parable, the porter's action of opening the gate to the shepherd signifies divine authentication and authorized entry. While some interpretations suggest the porter represents the Holy Spirit, who grants spiritual understanding and access to Christ, or even Moses and the prophets who prepared the way for Jesus, the most common and compelling theological understanding is that the porter represents God the Father. The Father is the one who "opens" the way for Jesus, confirming His divine mission and authority as the true Shepherd, as Jesus later states, "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him" ([John 6:44](/john/6-44 "John 6:44 - The Father Draws All to Jesus")). This emphasizes that Jesus' ministry is not self-appointed but divinely sanctioned.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 10:3 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who embodies the true and ultimate Shepherd of God's people. This verse, with its depiction of the shepherd's legitimate access, personal knowledge of his sheep, and guiding leadership, perfectly foreshadows Jesus' own ministry and identity. He is the one to whom the Father "openeth" the way, signifying His divine appointment and authority as the Messiah ([John 5:19-23](/john/5-19-23 "John 5:19-23 - The Son's Authority")). Jesus explicitly declares, "I am the good shepherd" ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd")), echoing the Old Testament prophecies of a coming shepherd for Israel ([Ezekiel 34:23-24](/ezekiel/34-23-24 "Ezekiel 34:23-24 - David My Servant, the Shepherd")). His calling "his own sheep by name" speaks to the profound intimacy of His relationship with believers, a relationship established through His atoning sacrifice, by which He knows each of His redeemed ones personally ([Galatians 4:9](/galatians/4-9 "Galatians 4:9 - Known by God")). Furthermore, Jesus' promise that "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me" ([John 10:27](/john/10-27 "John 10:27 - My Sheep Hear My Voice")) directly fulfills the imagery of the sheep recognizing and responding to their shepherd. He leads them "out" not just to physical pasture, but to eternal life and abundant spiritual provision, ultimately to the Father Himself ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). Thus, John 10:3 is a foundational declaration of Christ's unique role as the divine, personal, and guiding Shepherd of His people.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ezekiel 34:11

For thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I, [even] I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out.

Ezekiel 34:16

I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up [that which was] broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment.

2 Timothy 2:19

¶ Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

John 10:4

And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.

John 10:16

And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, [and] one shepherd.

John 10:14

I am the good shepherd, and know my [sheep], and am known of mine.

Psalms 78:52

But made his own people to go forth like sheep, and guided them in the wilderness like a flock.