Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 10:3

"To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out." — John 10:3 (ASV)

The “watchman” (GK 2601) cannot be identified with any particular person; rather, the word illustrates Jesus’ coming at the right time and in the right way. He alone has the right to spiritual leadership of his people, and the sheep listen to him. The Oriental shepherd usually named his sheep and could summon them by calling them.