The expression, " My sheep," points to the close connec- tion that exists between Christ and believers. They are His by gift from the Father, His by purchase, His by call- ing and choice, and His by their own consent and heart- submission. In the highest sense they are Christ's prop- erty ; and just as a man feels a special interest in that which he has bought at a great price and made his own, so does the Lord Jesus feel a peculiar interest in His people.
Expressions like these should be carefully treasured up in the memories of true Christians. They will be found cheering and heart-strengthening in days of trial. The world may see no beauty in the ways of a godly man, and may often pour contempt on him. But he who knows that he is one of Christ's sheep has no cause to be ashamed. He has within him a " well of water springing up into ever- lasting life." (John iv. 14.)
We should notice, lastly, in this passage, the vast privi* leges which the Lord Jesus Christ bestoivs on true Christians. He uses words about them of singular richness and strength, " I know them. — I give unto them eternal life. — They shall never perish, — neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand." This sentence is like the cluster of grapes which came from Eshcol. A stronger form of speech perhaps can hardty be found in the whole range of the Bible.
Christ " knows" his people with a special knowledge of approbation, interest, and affection. By the world around them they are comparatively unknown, uncared for, or de- spised. But they are never forgotten or overlooked by Christ.
Christ "gives" his people " eternal life." He bestows on them freely a right and title to heaven, pardoning their many sins, and clothing them with a perfect righteousness. Money, and health, and worldly prosperity He often wisely withholds from them. But He never fails to give them grace, peace, and glory.