Definition: And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from John 10:4. It’s a really important message about Jesus! Here's what it means in simpler terms: “When he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.” Let’s unpack that: "When he putteth forth his own sheep..." – This is a metaphor. Jesus is comparing himself to a shepherd who cares for his flock. He's saying He’s leading and guiding people towards Him. "...he goeth before them..." – This means He’s walking alongside them, showing the way. He’s not just standing there; He’s actively moving forward. "...and the sheep follow him:" – This is a direct instruction! The sheep are following Him . It's a clear sign of trust and devotion. "for they know his voice." – This is the key part! Jesus isn't just appearing to be nearby; He’s communicating with them through His words, His actions, and His teachings. He's speaking to them in a way that’s understandable and meaningful. In essence, this verse says: Jesus loves his followers deeply and is actively leading them towards Him. He’s not just being present, but he’s communicating with them and guiding them. Why is this important? It emphasizes that: Jesus is a leader: He's the shepherd of His people. Trust is rewarded: Following Jesus means trusting in Him and aligning your life with His teachings. Communication matters: The way we understand and receive Jesus’ message is vital to our relationship with Him. Do you want me to explain any of this further? For example, would you like to know: What does "sheep" symbolize in the Bible? How does this verse relate to the idea of a shepherd?