Definition: But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 10:12. It’s a really important message about our relationship with God and our responsibility to protect His gifts. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling us that people who are not truly faithful to God will try to steal His blessings or His way of life. It’s a warning about temptation and the dangers of straying from the path of righteousness. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “John 10:12” : This is the verse itself – it’s a specific passage from the Gospel of John. “But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd…” : This describes someone who isn’t truly serving God. A “hireling” means someone who works for someone else, doesn't have a true purpose, or isn’t committed to following God's will. They're working in the shadows. “…whose own the sheep are not…” : This is the core of the warning. “Sheep” represent God’s people – His blessings, His gifts, and His way of life. If someone is not faithful, they are trying to take those things from God's flock (his people). “…seeth the wolf coming…” : This describes a predator . A “wolf” represents temptation, sin, or evil that tries to steal God’s blessings or ways. It’s actively seeking to harm what is good and right. “…and leaveth the sheep…” : This means the person who isn't faithful leaves the people of God behind – they are not helping them, aren’t protecting them, and don’t share their gifts with them. “…and scattereth the sheep” : This describes the consequences of this behavior. The person who isn’t faithful is causing chaos and scattering (disrupting) the people of God. In a nutshell: This verse warns us that those who are not truly devoted to God will try to steal His blessings, and they will leave others vulnerable to harm. It's a call to faithfulness and to protect what belongs to God. Why is this important? This verse speaks to our responsibility as believers – to be diligent in following God’s teachings, to guard against temptation, and to actively support and care for those who are part of God’s flock. --- Do you want me to: Explain it further with an example? Connect this verse to a specific biblical story or character? Discuss the importance of faithfulness in our lives?