John 10:4

“And when he putteth forth his own sheep, etc.] The Ethiopic version reads, “when he leads them all out”; in order to bring them into proper pastures: he goeth before them; in allusion to the eastern shepherds, who when they put out their flocks, did not, as ours do, drive them before them, and follow after them, at least not always, but went before them: so Christ, the great shepherd, goes before his flock, not only to provide for them, but by way of example to them; in many instances he is an ensample to the flock, as under shepherds, according to the measure of grace received, should be: he has left them an example in many respects, that they should tread in his steps: and the sheep follow…”

“He putteth forth - Or leads them out of the fold. He goeth before them - He leads them, and guides them, and does not leave them. A shepherd spent his time with his flocks. He went before them to seek the best pastures and watering-places, and to defend them from danger. In this is beautifully represented the tender care of him who watches for souls as one that must give account. return to 'Top of Page'”

“He goeth before them - In all the ways of God, teaching them in every point, by example as well as by precept; and the sheep follow him - They tread in his steps: for they know his voice - Having the witness in themselves that his words are the wisdom and the power of God. Reader, art thou a shepherd of souls? Then answer to God. Is it thus with thee and thy flock? John 10:5”

“10:4 A good shepherd always leads his sheep; he never drives them. When they recognize his voice, they trust his leadership and follow him.”

“he goeth: Joh 12:26, Joh 13:15, Joh 14:2, Joh 14:3; Deu 1:30; Mic 2:12, Mic 2:13; Mat 16:24; Co1 11:1; Eph 5:1; Phi 2:5-11; Heb 6:20, Heb 12:2; Pe1 2:21, Pe1 4:1, Pe1 5:3 for: Joh 10:8, Joh 10:16, Joh 3:29, Joh 18:37; Sol 2:8, Sol 5:2 John 10:5”