The Shepherd's Voice

John 10:27-42
An outstanding characteristic of sheep is that they hear the voice of the shepherd. The true sheep hear the voice of the true Shepherd. Why do they hear? The true Shepherd answers. "I know them." It is a higher thing for Jesus to know them than for them to know Him. Their response is to follow Him. This is the real attitude of the sheep of the pasture, of the sheep upon earth; nothing can be more blessed, more distinct, more concise, or more separate. It is entirely outside of all organizations, confederations, or ideas and thoughts of men.
The company of sheep is separated to Him by faith. Faith is the link. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word. Following of the Shepherd results from hearing the voice of the Shepherd. There is nothing so blessed as the sensitiveness of the ear that hears the voice and follows Him. The important thing is not only to hear the voice, but to act on it and follow.