John 10:27
“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”
As one reads this chapter, ones attention may focus upon the words “…the sheep hear his voice…”, v. 3; “…they know his voice…”, v.4; “…am known by My own…”, v. 14; “…they will hear My voice…”, v. 16; “My sheep hear My voice…”. The context likens all true believers to sheep.
True believers are all who repent of their sin, believing Jesus shed His sinless blood as payment for their sin, believing Jesus died and in three days resurrected back to life, and trust in the work of Christ alone for their salvation from the penalty of sin. Jesus said “I know them”. Jesus' sheep know Him and follow Him. Jesus told Pilate, “Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice”, John 18:37. As one spends time in prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with Jesus a beautiful intimate relationship develops.
Our Lord desires to communicate and fellowship with His people today. Jesus issued this message to the Church of Laodicea in Revelation 3:14-22. He rebuked the church for her apathy and called her to repent. The Lord extended to them, and Christians today, this invitation: “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” The phrase “dine with him, and he with Me” implies a close and intimate fellowship.
Maybe you have grown luke-warm and apathetic, and Jesus’ voice has grown faint. Hear the Lord’s voice call you back to Him. Repent and return to Jesus.
Forgive us of our sin of apathy, rekindle our love for You, O Lord, and restore our fellowship with You.
Learning to serve,
Robert Finley
