"In the parable we have, (1.) The evidence of a thief and robber, that comes to do mischief to the flock, and damage to the owner, Joh_10:1. He enters not by the door, as having no lawful cause of entry, but climbs up some other way, at a window, or some breach in the wall…. (2.) The character that distinguishes the rightful owner, who has a property in the sheep, and a care for them: He enters in by the door, as one having authority, and he comes to do them some good office or other, to bind up that which is broken, and strengthen that which is sick…. (4.) The care he takes and the provision he makes for his sheep. The sheep hear his voice, when he speaks familiarly to them, when they come into the fold, as men now do to their dogs and horses; and, which is more, he calls his own sheep by name, so exact is the notice he takes of them…and he leads them from the fold to the green pastures; and when he turns them out to graze he does not drive them, but…he goes before them, to prevent any mischief or danger that might meet them, and they, being used to it, follow him, and are safe. (5.) …They know his voice, so as to discern his mind by it, and to distinguish it from that of a stranger, and a stranger will they not follow, but, as suspecting some ill design, will flee from him, not knowing his voice…." – Matthew Henry |
