BIBLE LESSON

“My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand.”

— John 10:27-28

What makes Jesus' sheep different from other sheep?

First, Jesus' sheep believe in and believe Jesus. Some claim to believe in Jesus, but they do not indicate by their actions that they believe Jesus. They do not believe all His promises, or they disregard some of His commands.

Second, those who believe Jesus hear His voice. As they pray and read the Bible, they hear Jesus speaking to them as the Holy Spirit gives them understanding of the Bible's teachings. They hear and believe the Word of God.

Third, Jesus knows His sheep and Jesus knows those who are not His sheep. Jesus told some of the religious leaders that they did not believe Him because they did not belong to His sheep.

Fourth, because Jesus and His sheep know one another, Jesus' sheep follow (obey) Jesus wherever He leads, and He always leads according to the Bible.

Fifth, Jesus gives His sheep eternal life, a Godgiven quality of life in this world that will last throughout eternity. The gift of eternal life transforms believers into new people who love God and others.

Sixth, Jesus' sheep will never perish. They may suffer afflictions, diseases, persecutions, and physical death, but they will not perish. They cannot die spiritually but will live as Jesus' sheep forever.

Seventh, no one will be able to snatch Jesus' sheep out the Father's hand or Jesus' hand. Jesus has a firm grip on those He loves and those who love Him. If one of Jesus' sheep stray, He will find them and bring them home.