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.

And {G2532} when {G3752} he putteth forth {G1544} his own {G2398} sheep {G4263}, he goeth {G4198} before {G1715} them {G846}, and {G2532} the sheep {G4263} follow {G190} him {G846}: for {G3754} they know {G1492} his {G846} voice {G5456}.

After taking out all that are his own, he goes on ahead of them; and the sheep follow him because they recognize his voice.

When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.

When he hath put forth all his own, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.

Commentary

John 10:4 (KJV) continues Jesus’ profound teaching on His identity as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing the intimate and trusting relationship He has with His followers. This verse paints a vivid picture of divine leadership and faithful discipleship.

Context and Imagery

In ancient Israel, shepherding was a familiar and vital profession. Unlike modern practices where sheep are often driven from behind, Middle Eastern shepherds traditionally led their flocks, walking ahead of them. The sheep knew their shepherd's distinct call and would follow him willingly. Jesus uses this common imagery to illustrate His relationship with His disciples, referring to them as "his own sheep." This imagery begins in John 10:3, where the sheep hear the shepherd's voice and are called by name, setting the stage for their subsequent following.

Key Themes

  • Divine Leadership: Jesus explicitly states, "he goeth before them." This highlights that Christ leads by example, guiding His flock through life's paths. He doesn't push or force but leads the way, inviting His followers to walk where He has already trod. This echoes the sentiment of Psalm 23, where the Lord leads His sheep beside still waters.
  • Intimate Knowledge and Trust: The phrase "the sheep follow him: for they know his voice" underscores the deep, personal connection between the Shepherd and His sheep. This "knowing" isn't merely intellectual recognition but an experiential familiarity born of relationship. The sheep trust the Shepherd's direction because they recognize His unique voice among many others.
  • Discipleship and Obedience: Following Christ is a core aspect of discipleship. It implies active listening, discerning His will, and walking in obedience to His leading. This voluntary following is a hallmark of true faith.

Linguistic Nuance

The Greek word for "know" in this verse is ginōskō (γινώσκω), which signifies a deep, personal, and experiential knowledge, rather than just factual acquaintance (as with oida). It implies a relationship built over time, where the sheep have learned to distinguish their Shepherd's voice from strangers. This intimate knowing is why they are willing to follow. Similarly, "voice" (phōnē) refers not just to the sound, but to the authority and specific call of the Shepherd.

Practical Application

For believers today, John 10:4 offers profound comfort and guidance. It reminds us that Jesus continues to lead His people. Our responsibility is to cultivate a relationship with Him so intimate that we "know his voice." This involves:

  • Spiritual Discernment: Learning to discern Christ's voice amidst the clamor of the world, our own desires, and false teachings. This often comes through consistent engagement with God's Word and prayer.
  • Trust and Obedience: Just as the sheep follow, we are called to trust Christ's leadership, even when the path is unclear, and to obey His commands.
  • Assurance of Guidance: Knowing that Jesus goes before us offers peace and confidence. He has already prepared the way and will lead us safely. As Jesus states later in this chapter, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me" (John 10:27).
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Cross-References

  • Deuteronomy 1:30 (11 votes)

    The LORD your God which goeth before you, he shall fight for you, according to all that he did for you in Egypt before your eyes;

  • John 10:16 (10 votes)

    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 12:26 (8 votes)

    If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will [my] Father honour.

  • John 18:37 (6 votes)

    Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.

  • 1 Peter 2:21 (5 votes)

    For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:

  • 1 Peter 5:3 (4 votes)

    Neither as being lords over [God's] heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.

  • John 10:8 (4 votes)

    All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.