What does "I know My sheep" reveal about Jesus' relationship with believers? The Shepherd’s Statement “I am the good shepherd. I know My sheep and My sheep know Me.” (John 10:14) What “I know” Declares about Jesus • Personal, individual knowledge—not mere awareness • Continuous, not occasional; He never forgets a single sheep • Intimate, heart-level understanding of every need, fear, and desire (Psalm 139:1-4) • Covenant ownership—He has purchased the flock with His own blood (Acts 20:28) Implications for Every Believer • You are fully known and still fully loved (Romans 5:8) • Your identity is secured in His knowledge of you, not in your knowledge of Him (2 Timothy 2:19) • You are protected; the One who knows you guards you (John 10:28-29) • You are guided; He calls you by name and leads you out (John 10:3-4) • You are valued; the Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep (John 10:15) How This Relationship Functions Daily 1. Recognition of His voice—regular time in Scripture tunes the ear (John 10:27) 2. Rest in His presence—confidence replaces fear because the Shepherd is near (Psalm 23:4) 3. Response in obedience—those who are known follow where He leads (Luke 6:46) 4. Reliance on His care—casting every anxiety on Him because He cares (1 Peter 5:7) Encouragement When Doubt Creeps In • His knowledge of you preceded your love for Him (1 John 4:19) • Your failures do not erase His shepherding claim (John 21:15-17) • Nothing can separate you from His keeping hand (Romans 8:38-39) A Closing Picture The good Shepherd’s declaration, “I know My sheep,” anchors believers in unfailing, personal, and protective love. Because He knows, we can follow, rest, and rejoice. |
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