Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 10:12

"He that is a hireling, and not a shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, beholdeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth, and the wolf snatcheth them, and scattereth [them]:" — John 10:12 (ASV)

Jesus’ statement about the hired hand indicates the differences between himself and the religious leaders of the day. The main concern of the hired hand is his pay (cf. 1 Peter 5:2–3), not the welfare of the sheep. When the flock is attacked by a wolf, he deserts them, for he will not endanger himself for them. Without proper and courageous leadership, the sheep will be dispersed and easily become the victims of their enemies.