Verse 11. The good shepherd. The faithful and true shepherd, willing to do all that is necessary to defend and save the flock.

Giveth his life. A shepherd that regarded his flock would hazard his own life to defend them. When the wolf comes, he would still remain to protect them. To give his life, here, means the same as not to fly, or to forsake his flock; to be willing to expose his life, if necessary, to defend them. Comp. Jud 12:3 "I put my life in my hands and passed over," &c.; 1 Sa 19:5; 28:21. See Joh 10:15. The Messiah was often predicted under the character of a shepherd.

{i} "I am the good shepherd" Heb 13:20; 1 Pe 2:25