Why His Sheep Gladly Follow Him

Eastern shepherds do not drive their sheep. They do not depend on force or fear, but going ahead of them, they call the sheep. The Savior-Shepherd does the same with His sheep. He declares, “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you.” Jeremiah 31:3.HH 224.5

It is not fear of punishment or hope of everlasting reward that leads the disciples of Christ to follow Him. They see the Savior’s matchless love revealed from the manger of Bethlehem to Calvary’s cross, and the sight of Him attracts, softens, and subdues them. Love awakens in their hearts. They hear His voice, and they follow Him.HH 224.6

The shepherd goes ahead of the sheep, encountering the perils first. So does Jesus with His people. The way to heaven is made holy by the Savior’s footprints.HH 224.7

Though now He shares the throne of the universe, Jesus has lost none of His compassion. Today His pierced hand reaches out to bless His people in the world. “And they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.” The person who has come to Christ in faith is more precious in His sight than the whole world. He will never abandon one for whom He has died. Unless His followers choose to leave Him, He will hold them securely.HH 225.1