Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 10:14

"I am the good shepherd; and I know mine own, and mine own know me," — John 10:14 (ASV)

The reaffirmation “I am the good shepherd” is based on knowledge of the sheep. “Know” (GK 1182) implies a relationship of trust and intimacy. The definitive analogy given here is drawn from Jesus’ relation to the Father. The Shepherd is concerned for the sheep because they are his property and because he loves them individually.