The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.
This little story is a parable. Jesus is offering his listeners insight into the truth about who he is. In the story, we see the relationship between the shepherd and his sheep illustrated by the familiarity of the shepherd’s voice. Like a fingerprint, each person’s voice is unique. The sheep, whether they can see him across the sheepfold or not, recognize the voice of their shepherd.
To understand this parable, we have to realize that not all of the sheep in the sheepfold belong to the shepherd. There are many sheep there who do not belong to him and who do not respond to his voice. It is important to remember that these sheep are a part of the story, too. In fact, one might venture to say that as far as the Pharisees are concerned, they are the most important part of the story.
Let’s Discuss: What are the differences between the sheep who know the shepherd and those who do not?
Those who know the shepherd are those who follow Jesus – his flock. I think most of the difference is in the identity of the shepherd rather than the identity of the sheep.
Those who know me obey my commands.