John 10:4 Commentary - Garner-Howes Baptist Commentary

1) "And when he putteth forth his own sheep," (hotan ta idia panta ekbale) "When he puts out all his own," or puts them forth, in fields of witnessing, light bearing, and service, Mat 5:15-16; Mat 28:19-20; Act 1:8.

2) "He goeth before them," (emprosthen auton poreuetai) "He goes in front of them," or before them of his own choice or accord, as the Eastern Shepherd always leads his sheep. He asks them to go no place, do no service, endure no pain that He Himself does not understand, for He had and does go before them, Heb 4:15-16; 1Co 10:13; Joh 17:19; Col 2:11-15.

3) "And the sheep follow him:- (kai ta probata auto alkolouthei) "And the sheep follow him," one by one, because they choose to do so, feeling safe, secure to go where He leads, Joh 10:27.

4) "For they know his voice." (hoti oidasin ten phonen autou) "Because they know, perceive, or recognize his voice," as Savior, Lord, Master. As He calls, cheers, encourages, comforts, provides, and protects them, by day and by night, So 2:8; Joh 10:14; 2Ti 1:12; Joh 17:3.