hear My voice
The phrase "hear My voice" signifies recognition and response to the call of Jesus. In the Greek, the word for "hear" is "ἀκούω" (akouo), which implies not just hearing but understanding and obeying. This is not a passive listening but an active engagement with the teachings and commands of Christ. Historically, the voice of a shepherd was unique to his sheep, and they would follow only him. This reflects the spiritual discernment of believers who are attuned to the guidance of Christ amidst the noise of the world.

I know them
"I know them" speaks to the deep, personal relationship Jesus has with His followers. The Greek word "γινώσκω" (ginosko) is used here, which means to know experientially and intimately. This is not mere intellectual knowledge but a profound connection that encompasses love, care, and understanding. In the biblical context, to be known by God is to be in a covenant relationship with Him, where He acknowledges and cherishes His people.

and they follow Me
The phrase "and they follow Me" indicates the response of the sheep to the shepherd's call. The Greek word "ἀκολουθέω" (akoloutheo) means to accompany or to go along with. This implies a continuous, active choice to walk in the path set by Jesus. Following Christ involves discipleship, commitment, and a willingness to submit to His leadership. Historically, disciples would literally follow their rabbi, learning from his teachings and lifestyle. In the same way, believers are called to follow Jesus, emulating His example and adhering to His teachings.

(1)"My sheep hear My voice," . . "and I know them;"

(2)"And they follow Me" . . "and I give unto them eternal life;"

(3)"And they shall never perish" . . . "neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand."

By reading successively the clauses placed on the left side of the page, we trace the progress of the human act and state; by reading, in the same way, the clauses on the right side of the page, we trace the progress of the divine gift; by reading each pair in the order of the text, we see how at each stage the gift is proportioned to the faculty which can receive it.

The earlier clauses are familiar to us from the preceding discourse, but some expressions will need a word of explanation.

Eternal life.--Comp. John 10:10, where the word "eternal" is added in some readings. Here the verb is in the present, "I give (am now giving) them." (Comp. John 3:15; John 5:24; John 6:47 et seq.). We cannot be too careful to observe that our Lord's thoughts of "eternal life" is never of the future only. It is a development, rather than a simply future existence. We shall live eternally, because we now live spiritually in communion with the Spirit who is Eternal. . . .

(2) Christ's claim to equality of power and essence, and similarity of gracious operation with the Father. Verses 27, 28. - My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any one pluck them out of my hand. Commentators have differed as to the arrangement of these two verses - whether the six assertions should be regarded as two triplets, in the first of which the sheep of Christ are made prominent, and in the latter of which the Shepherd; thus -

(l) The sheep -

"My sheep hear my voice" (their receptivity). . . .

Parallel Commentaries ...