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John 10:11
Verse
Context
Jesus the Good Shepherd
10The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness.11I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.12The hired hand is not the shepherd, and the sheep are not his own. When he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf pounces on them and scatters the flock.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I am the good shepherd - Whose character is the very reverse of that which has already been described. In Joh 10:7, Joh 10:9, our Lord had called himself the door of the sheep, as being the sole way to glory, and entrance into eternal life; here he changes the thought, and calls himself the shepherd, because of what he was to do for them that believe in him, in order to prepare them for eternal glory. Giveth his life for the sheep - That is, gives up his soul as a sacrifice to save them from eternal death. Some will have the phrase here only to mean hazarding his life in order to protect others; but the 15th, 17th, and 18th verses, as well as the whole tenor of the new covenant, sufficiently prove that the first sense is that in which our Lord's words should be understood.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I am the good shepherd--emphatically, and, in the sense intended, exclusively so (Isa 40:11; Eze 34:23; Eze 37:24; Zac 13:7). the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep--Though this may be said of literal shepherds, who, even for their brute flock, have, like David, encountered "the lion and the bear" at the risk of their own lives, and still more of faithful pastors who, like the early bishops of Rome, have been the foremost to brave the fury of their enemies against the flock committed to their care; yet here, beyond doubt, it points to the struggle which was to issue in the willing surrender of the Redeemer's own life, to save His sheep from destruction.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I am the good shepherd,.... A shepherd of his Father's appointing, calling, and sending, to whom the care of all his sheep, or chosen ones, was committed; who was set up as a shepherd over them by him, and was entrusted with them; and who being called, undertook to feed them; and being promised, was sent unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel; and under the character of a shepherd, died for them, and rose again, and is accountable to his Father for everyone of them; the shepherd, the great and chief shepherd, the famous one, so often spoken and prophesied of, Gen 49:24. And discharging his office aright, he is the good shepherd; as appears in his providing good pasture, and a good fold for his sheep; in protecting them from their enemies; in healing all their diseases; in restoring their souls when strayed from him; in watching over them in the night seasons, lest any hurt them; in searching for them, when they have been driven, or scattered in the dark and cloudy day; in caring for them, so that he lose none of them; and in nothing more than in what follows, the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep: not only exposes it to danger, as David did his, for the sake of his father's flock, but gives it away freely and voluntarily, for the sake of the sheep; in their room and stead, as a ransom for them, that they may be delivered from death, and might have eternal life: the Ethiopic version renders it, "the good shepherd gives his life for the redemption of his sheep"; so Nonnus paraphrases it, the "ransom price of his own sheep": this belongs to Christ's priestly office, and with the Jews priests were sometimes shepherds hence we read (q) of , "shepherds that were priests". Philo the Jew speaks (r) of God as a shepherd and king; and of his setting his word, his firstborn Son, over the holy flock, to take care of it: and a good shepherd is thus described by the (s) Jews; "as , "a good shepherd", delivers the flock from the wolf, and from the lions, (see Joh 10:12) so he that leads Israel, if he is good, delivers them from the idolatrous nations, and from judgment below and above, and leads them to the life of the world to come, or eternal life; (see Joh 10:10).'' Which description agrees with Christ, the good shepherd; and so the Lord is said to be , "the good shepherd", and merciful, and there is none like him (t). (q) Misn. Becorot, c. 5. sect. 4. (r) De Agricultura, p. 195. & de nom. mutat. p. 1062. (s) Zohar in Exod. fol. 9. 3. (t) Aben Ezra in Psal. xxiii. 3. & Kimchi in Psal. xxiii. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
10:11-14 I am: See study note on 6:35. The good shepherd leads his sheep, finds food and water, and locates paths in the wilderness (see Ps 23). The good shepherd stands between his sheep and danger (John 10:11) and fights to protect them. The Old Testament describes God as Israel’s shepherd (Pss 23; 80:1; Isa 40:10-11). The leaders of God’s people should shepherd their flock as God does (Ezek 34:23). However, the leaders of Israel in Jesus’ time were bad shepherds. 10:11-13 Small villages often created communal flocks and employed a hired hand to tend the sheep. However, an employee lacked the commitment of a true shepherd. The wilderness of Judea had many predators. When a wolf or other predators attacked, the hired hand would run rather than defend the sheep. Jesus will never do this; he will always stand between his sheep and danger.
John 10:11
Jesus the Good Shepherd
10The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness.11I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.12The hired hand is not the shepherd, and the sheep are not his own. When he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf pounces on them and scatters the flock.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(John - Part 45): A Biography of Judas Iscariot, Simons Son
By A.W. Tozer3.9K39:18ExpositionalPSA 95:7MAT 7:24MAT 16:18MAT 26:24JHN 1:1JHN 10:11HEB 3:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the seriousness and importance of Christianity. He warns against being deceived by the devil and urges the audience, particularly teenagers, to not let Satan influence their hearts. The preacher expresses his deep love for the audience and his desire to protect them from the clutches of hell. He references the story of Judas Iscariot, highlighting how even someone who witnessed Jesus' miracles and heard his divine words could still betray him. The sermon concludes with a plea to the audience to not harden their hearts and to heed the voice of God.
The Shaping of Godly Character
By Art Katz3.1K1:00:00Godly CharacterGEN 1:27EXO 40:34PSA 51:10ISA 66:13JHN 10:11ROM 14:111CO 6:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the theme of the conference, which is the shaping of godly character. He expresses his burden for the Jewish believers in New York City and prays for a special door to be opened for the ministry among them. The speaker also requests prayer for a dying Jewish mother and asks God to comfort her and give her a sense of anticipation for the joy that awaits her. The sermon emphasizes the need for the attendees to reflect God's glory and bring the light of Yeshua HaMashiach (Jesus Christ) into the households of the city and the nation.
Are You Tired?
By Major Ian Thomas3.0K1:04:58WearinessMAT 11:28JHN 3:16JHN 10:11JHN 14:6ACT 4:122CO 5:171TI 1:15In this sermon, the speaker begins by acknowledging the rapid growth of the world's population, with an estimated 4,000 more people being born by the time he finishes speaking. He also highlights the prevalent issue of tiredness among people in today's world. The speaker expresses his desire to bring refreshment and comfort to the tired audience. He then shares a personal story about a young girl who discovered the purpose of her existence in surrendering her entire being to Jesus Christ. Throughout the sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing God as our Creator and Redeemer, and surrendering all aspects of our lives to Him.
God's Cure for Fear
By Chuck Smith2.9K27:12FearPSA 23:4ISA 40:12ISA 41:10ISA 43:2MAT 6:33JHN 10:11In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from the book of Daniel. He highlights how these three Hebrew boys were thrown into a fiery furnace by King Nebuchadnezzar because they refused to worship his golden image. However, God miraculously protected them, and they walked around in the fire unharmed. The preacher emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's promises and the consciousness of His complete love for us as remedies for fear. He also encourages the congregation to read and study Isaiah chapters 41 through 43, which contain powerful messages of comfort and assurance from God.
The Local Church 1 - Part 4
By William MacDonald2.6K08:44JHN 10:111CO 3:16EPH 2:21REV 1:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of the local church reflecting the spiritual basis and conduct of the universal church. Each church is meant to be autonomous, self-ruling, self-financing, and self-propagating, directly responsible to the Lord Jesus Christ. While independent, there is also a call for inter-assembly fellowship among believers. The true measure of a church is not its size but the holiness of its members, highlighting that God values purity over numbers.
Seek and Save the Lost
By Chuck Smith1.7K35:37NUM 6:24ISA 53:6LUK 19:10JHN 3:16JHN 10:11HEB 11:6This sermon delves into the significance of faith in establishing a relationship with God and receiving His promises. It explores the potential of faith, the need for increased belief, and the blessings that come with trusting God. The focus shifts to the purpose of Jesus' coming, emphasizing His mission to seek and save the lost, as illustrated through the encounter with Zacchaeus. The sermon highlights the importance of choice in fostering genuine fellowship with God and the restoration of that fellowship through Jesus Christ's sacrifice.
The Names of Christ by Mike Yeager - Part 1
By Michael H Yeager1.6K06:50ISA 9:6MAT 16:15JHN 10:11PHP 2:9COL 1:15REV 1:8This sermon delves into the various names and attributes of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the significance of who He is in our lives. From being the Alpha and Omega to the Good Shepherd, each name reveals a different aspect of His character and role in our salvation. The exploration of over 400 names of Jesus showcases His divinity, power, and eternal nature, inviting us to reflect on our personal relationship with Him.
The Making of Overcomers
By Stephen Kaung1.5K1:11:58OvercomingPSA 23:1MAT 6:33JHN 10:11REV 1:13REV 5:5REV 7:9REV 7:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses various scenes from the book of Revelation. The first scene described is the vision of Christ as the Lion of the tribe of Judah and the Lamb standing before the throne. The second scene is the vision of Christ as the Son of Man walking among the seven golden candlesticks, symbolizing His presence in His own church. The speaker then introduces another scene from Revelation chapter 7, where a great multitude from every nation and tribe stands before the throne and the Lamb, dressed in white robes and holding palms in their hands. The angels and elders also worship God, giving Him blessings, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving, honor, power, and might.
The Names of Christ by Mike Yeager - Part 3
By Michael H Yeager1.5K04:53PSA 23:1ISA 9:6JHN 4:14JHN 10:11JHN 14:6JHN 15:51CO 1:30COL 1:17HEB 13:8REV 22:13This sermon exalts the many names and attributes of God, emphasizing His multifaceted nature as the provider, protector, Savior, and guide. It highlights the significance of Jesus Christ as the central figure who embodies various roles such as the Prince of Peace, Redeemer, Shepherd, and the source of eternal life and wisdom.
Getting Ready to Light Your Lamp and Dance
By Carter Conlon1.5K45:16End TimesPSA 46:10ISA 40:31MAT 6:33LUK 2:8LUK 2:25JHN 10:11In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of being able to see Christ in this generation. He emphasizes the role of the faithful pastor or minister who cares for the flock of God and seeks to encourage and strengthen them. The speaker also highlights the lack of mercy in the world and the political motivations of religious leaders. He reminds believers that although they may face sorrow and difficulty, joy is coming their way. The sermon also touches on the signs of the end times and the need for spiritual discernment in these last days.
Centrality of the Cross
By Dennis Kinlaw1.4K36:22Cross of ChristMAT 16:21MRK 8:35LUK 9:23JHN 3:14JHN 6:53JHN 10:11JHN 12:24In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of publicly declaring one's faith in Christ. They emphasize that becoming a Christian means a complete change in lifestyle and a willingness to be identified as a follower of Christ. The speaker also highlights the sacrificial nature of Jesus' mission, as he willingly laid down his life for his sheep. They encourage the audience to consider their own commitment to Christ and to take up their cross, reminding them that the only regret they will have is if they fail to do so.
Shepherds of the Flock
By Eric J. Alexander1.3K51:06MAT 6:33JHN 10:3JHN 10:11JHN 10:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a man of conviction while also being gentle and loving towards those who disagree. He refers to the knowledge that Jesus speaks of in John, where the good shepherd knows his sheep and is known by them. The speaker highlights the example of Bonner, McShane, and Burns, who had a deep and loving care for the flock entrusted to them. He encourages pastors to get to know their congregations and apply the word of God to their specific needs, rather than having a detached and doctrinaire approach.
Audio Sermon: (1 Peter - Part 33): Humble Yourselves Under the Mighty Hand of God
By A.W. Tozer1.2K30:05PSA 23:1EZK 34:1JHN 10:11HEB 13:171PE 5:1This sermon delves into the role of elders in the church, emphasizing the importance of wise and experienced leaders who are dedicated to feeding, overseeing, and setting an example for the flock of God. It highlights the need for spiritual leadership, the provision of nourishment and protection, and the significance of humility and godliness in shepherding God's people. The ultimate focus is on the expectation of the chief shepherd's appearance and the eternal reward for faithful service.
Psalm 23:2-3
By Carl Armerding1.2K52:57RestorationPSA 23:2MAT 6:33MAT 11:28MRK 6:31JHN 10:11HEB 11:32JAS 5:13In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the challenges and weariness of life, particularly in the context of raising children. They mention their own mother's experience with ten children and how they were not always well-behaved. The speaker emphasizes the importance of spiritual refreshment and protection for children in a world filled with negative influences. They draw on the imagery of peaceful waters and the Holy Spirit to highlight the soothing and transformative power of God's Word. The sermon concludes with a song that speaks of finding strength and trust in Jesus through all trials and difficulties.
Desert Survival Series Pt 10- Moses the Servant of God
By Don Courville1.1K36:15Desert SurvivalEXO 3:14JHN 4:14JHN 6:35JHN 8:12JHN 10:9JHN 10:11JHN 14:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses a story from the Bible about a group of people who challenged Moses' leadership. They questioned why Moses was the one in charge and claimed that they could do the same job. This angered Moses, and he declared that those who opposed him would die. Miraculously, the earth opened up and swallowed the rebels, proving that Moses was chosen by God. The speaker then transitions to discussing the importance of salvation and urges the audience to accept Jesus into their lives.
Five Loaves and Two Fishes
By Major Ian Thomas1.1K41:23MiraclesMAT 6:33MRK 6:34LUK 9:10JHN 10:11JHN 14:6JHN 21:17EPH 1:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a miraculous quality of life through God's presence. He highlights how the disciples initially knew nothing of this miraculous living until something transformed their lives. The preacher explains that the Christian life is dependent on God's presence and without Him, we can do nothing. The sermon also discusses the story of Jesus feeding the hungry crowd with limited resources, demonstrating that what may seem impossible from a human perspective is possible through God's perspective.
Luke 15:
By Welcome Detweiler1.1K38:02Lost SheepLUK 15:6JHN 10:11JAS 5:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the joy and happiness that spreads when a person trusts in Jesus as their Savior. The preacher suggests that the best way to make the world a better place is by bringing people to hear the gospel. The conversion of a lost soul brings rejoicing to the Godhead, heaven, and the individual who is saved. The preacher also highlights the importance of not giving up or becoming discouraged in the work of the Lord, as the devil tries to hinder Christians in their efforts. The sermon references verses from James, Luke, and the Psalms to support these points.
The Greatest Gift of All
By Joshua Daniel1.1K25:43EXO 3:14LUK 2:19JHN 3:16JHN 10:11ACT 3:6ROM 8:32This sermon emphasizes the greatest gift of God given to us at Christmas, which is Jesus Christ, born out of love. It highlights the importance of focusing on Jesus as the ultimate gift, rather than worldly possessions or comparisons with others. The message calls for surrendering our will to God, just like Francis Ridley Havergal did, and reflects on the significance of responding to the gift of Jesus with a commitment to live for Him. The sermon also draws parallels from the story of Moses and the need to trust in God's provision and presence, rather than worldly wealth or possessions.
(Where Is the Church Going) 2. Shepherds and Hirelings
By Miki Hardy1.0K52:56HirelingsMAT 6:33JHN 10:11ROM 12:1EPH 4:23COL 2:82TI 2:151PE 2:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for Christians to focus on the true essence of the gospel rather than being swayed by worldly influences. He urges believers to present themselves as living sacrifices to God and to renew their minds in order to discern His perfect will. The preacher also warns against being manipulated or exploited by false teachers and emphasizes the importance of discernment in these critical times. Overall, the sermon calls for a return to the heart of the gospel and a deeper understanding of God's Word.
Dallas Area Conference 1993-07
By William MacDonald1.0K38:55ConferencePSA 147:4ISA 53:5MAT 6:33LUK 23:33JHN 10:11ROM 8:29REV 21:23In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the sacrifices and suffering of Jesus Christ for the salvation of humanity. Despite the immense challenges and betrayals he faced, Jesus remained steadfast in his mission to seek and save the lost. The speaker emphasizes the lack of adoration and appreciation shown by those who witnessed Jesus' miracles and wonders. However, he highlights that as believers, we have the privilege to freely express our worship and awe for Christ. The sermon also touches on the triumphant ascension of Jesus into heaven and the anticipation of his glorious return.
The Truth About Prophecy - Introduction - Part 1
By Zac Poonen1.0K54:12NUM 12:6PRO 29:18JER 1:9EZK 33:7MAT 4:10MAT 11:25JHN 10:11JHN 17:171CO 13:9This sermon emphasizes the different aspects of prophecy in the Bible, highlighting the need for a clear understanding of what true prophecy entails. It addresses the confusion surrounding prophecy in different Christian groups, the importance of being governed by the Word of God alone, and the significance of having a pure heart and open mind to receive God's revelations. The sermon also discusses the value of prophecy, the dangers of counterfeit prophecy, and the characteristics of true prophets as seen in the Old Testament.
The Lord Has Need of You
By Edgar Reich84052:24WitnessingISA 64:6MAT 6:33MAT 21:2JHN 10:11JHN 17:20ROM 10:10ROM 10:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of sharing what Jesus has done for us with others. He uses the example of Jesus riding on a donkey, symbolizing the need for someone to carry Jesus and share his message. The speaker encourages the audience to be willing vessels for God's work, whether it be in their schools, homes, or neighborhoods. He also mentions the prophet Zechariah and how his words of life should inspire us to speak the gospel. The sermon concludes with an invitation to a witnessing workshop where attendees can learn more about sharing their testimonies and ask questions.
The Appearing of Resurrection and the Giving of Power
By Newman Sze8201:22:11MAT 28:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 24:44JHN 20:19JHN 21:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Lost
By Winkie Pratney81257:11Christian LifeMAT 6:33JHN 4:14JHN 8:12JHN 10:11ROM 3:23ROM 6:23In this sermon, the speaker discusses three parables from the Bible: the parable of the lost sheep, the parable of the lost coin, and the parable of the prodigal son. The speaker emphasizes that these parables are not just stories, but descriptions of reality and God's laws. He highlights the importance of understanding the cost and effort God put into finding and saving those who were lost. The speaker also mentions that God has given each person unique gifts and callings, which are rooted in His nature and character.
Studies in Zechariah 12 Zechariah 13:
By John W. Bramhall73243:13GEN 3:24ZEC 13:7MAT 6:33JHN 10:11HEB 13:20In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the profound impact of seeing Jesus on the cross for the first time as a young sinner. The sermon then delves into the significance of verse seven in the book of Zechariah, which reveals the humanity and deity of Jesus Christ. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus, as the good shepherd, willingly faced the judgment of God on behalf of humanity. The sermon also discusses the scattering of the sheep of Israel and the future gathering of all believers by Jesus.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I am the good shepherd - Whose character is the very reverse of that which has already been described. In Joh 10:7, Joh 10:9, our Lord had called himself the door of the sheep, as being the sole way to glory, and entrance into eternal life; here he changes the thought, and calls himself the shepherd, because of what he was to do for them that believe in him, in order to prepare them for eternal glory. Giveth his life for the sheep - That is, gives up his soul as a sacrifice to save them from eternal death. Some will have the phrase here only to mean hazarding his life in order to protect others; but the 15th, 17th, and 18th verses, as well as the whole tenor of the new covenant, sufficiently prove that the first sense is that in which our Lord's words should be understood.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I am the good shepherd--emphatically, and, in the sense intended, exclusively so (Isa 40:11; Eze 34:23; Eze 37:24; Zac 13:7). the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep--Though this may be said of literal shepherds, who, even for their brute flock, have, like David, encountered "the lion and the bear" at the risk of their own lives, and still more of faithful pastors who, like the early bishops of Rome, have been the foremost to brave the fury of their enemies against the flock committed to their care; yet here, beyond doubt, it points to the struggle which was to issue in the willing surrender of the Redeemer's own life, to save His sheep from destruction.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I am the good shepherd,.... A shepherd of his Father's appointing, calling, and sending, to whom the care of all his sheep, or chosen ones, was committed; who was set up as a shepherd over them by him, and was entrusted with them; and who being called, undertook to feed them; and being promised, was sent unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel; and under the character of a shepherd, died for them, and rose again, and is accountable to his Father for everyone of them; the shepherd, the great and chief shepherd, the famous one, so often spoken and prophesied of, Gen 49:24. And discharging his office aright, he is the good shepherd; as appears in his providing good pasture, and a good fold for his sheep; in protecting them from their enemies; in healing all their diseases; in restoring their souls when strayed from him; in watching over them in the night seasons, lest any hurt them; in searching for them, when they have been driven, or scattered in the dark and cloudy day; in caring for them, so that he lose none of them; and in nothing more than in what follows, the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep: not only exposes it to danger, as David did his, for the sake of his father's flock, but gives it away freely and voluntarily, for the sake of the sheep; in their room and stead, as a ransom for them, that they may be delivered from death, and might have eternal life: the Ethiopic version renders it, "the good shepherd gives his life for the redemption of his sheep"; so Nonnus paraphrases it, the "ransom price of his own sheep": this belongs to Christ's priestly office, and with the Jews priests were sometimes shepherds hence we read (q) of , "shepherds that were priests". Philo the Jew speaks (r) of God as a shepherd and king; and of his setting his word, his firstborn Son, over the holy flock, to take care of it: and a good shepherd is thus described by the (s) Jews; "as , "a good shepherd", delivers the flock from the wolf, and from the lions, (see Joh 10:12) so he that leads Israel, if he is good, delivers them from the idolatrous nations, and from judgment below and above, and leads them to the life of the world to come, or eternal life; (see Joh 10:10).'' Which description agrees with Christ, the good shepherd; and so the Lord is said to be , "the good shepherd", and merciful, and there is none like him (t). (q) Misn. Becorot, c. 5. sect. 4. (r) De Agricultura, p. 195. & de nom. mutat. p. 1062. (s) Zohar in Exod. fol. 9. 3. (t) Aben Ezra in Psal. xxiii. 3. & Kimchi in Psal. xxiii. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
10:11-14 I am: See study note on 6:35. The good shepherd leads his sheep, finds food and water, and locates paths in the wilderness (see Ps 23). The good shepherd stands between his sheep and danger (John 10:11) and fights to protect them. The Old Testament describes God as Israel’s shepherd (Pss 23; 80:1; Isa 40:10-11). The leaders of God’s people should shepherd their flock as God does (Ezek 34:23). However, the leaders of Israel in Jesus’ time were bad shepherds. 10:11-13 Small villages often created communal flocks and employed a hired hand to tend the sheep. However, an employee lacked the commitment of a true shepherd. The wilderness of Judea had many predators. When a wolf or other predators attacked, the hired hand would run rather than defend the sheep. Jesus will never do this; he will always stand between his sheep and danger.