Verse 4. He putteth forth. Or leads them out of the fold.

He goeth before them. He leads them, and guides them, and does not leave them. A shepherd spent his time with his flocks. He went before them to seek the best pastures and watering- places, and to defend them from danger. In this is beautifully represented the tender care of him who watches for souls as one that must give account.

{f} "they know his voice" So 2:8; 5:2