This passage shows us that a hired hand of the sheep works in order to get paid. However, when the time of adversity comes, they abandon the sheep. They do not have a shepherd heart and are not willing to risk their lives for the sheep.

Jesus is the good shepherd because he lays down his life for his sheep. He sacrifices his own life for sinful, weak, and rebellious sheep. He is the good shepherd because he knows each of them and cares for them with a shepherd heart. His sheep know their shepherd and listen to his voice. He is the good shepherd because he also cares for those outside the pen. Jesus offers himself as the Savior of the world and has concern for lost souls. God loves his Son who willingly laid down his life in obedience to God. He is the giver of eternal life for his sheep. Furthermore, Jesus has the authority to rise again from the dead.

Jesus’ sheep know that he is the good shepherd who laid down his life voluntarily and rose again from the dead to give them eternal life. They listen to his voice, trust his words, and follow him to the end.
Application: Lord, you are my good shepherd. Help me to be a good sheep to you. Grow me as a good shepherd like you.
One Word: Jesus, the good shepherd