What does "calls his own sheep by name" reveal about Jesus' relationship with us? Opening Verse “ ‘The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen for his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.’ ” (John 10:3) He Knows Us Individually • Jesus’ knowledge is personal, not general. • Psalm 139:1-4 affirms He has searched us and knows us. • Luke 12:7: “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” • No believer is anonymous in the flock. He Values Each Person • Isaiah 43:1: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine.” • Naming signals worth; the Shepherd’s voice confers identity and dignity. • 1 Peter 2:9 reminds us we are “a people for His own possession.” He Initiates Relationship • The Shepherd calls first; the sheep simply hear and follow. • 1 John 4:19: “We love because He first loved us.” • Revelation 3:20 pictures Him actively knocking and inviting fellowship. He Leads With Purpose • John 10:4: “When He has brought out all His own, He goes on ahead of them.” • Psalm 23:2-3 shows Him guiding to rest and righteousness. • Ephesians 2:10: we are “created in Christ Jesus for good works” prepared in advance. He Protects and Sets Apart • John 10:28-29: no one can snatch His sheep from His hand. • 2 Timothy 2:19: “The Lord knows those who are His.” • His personal call separates us from danger and false shepherds (John 10:5). Living in Light of His Personal Shepherding • Listen attentively for His voice in Scripture and by the Spirit. • Respond promptly—following is the natural outcome of being called. • Trust His leading even when paths are unfamiliar. • Rest in the security of His unbreakable grip. • Walk in the good works He has prepared, knowing He calls you by name. |
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