King James Version
What Does John 10:15 Mean?
“As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.”
Context
13
The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.
14
I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
15
As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.
16
And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.
17
Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(15) **As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father.**—Better, . . . *and I know the Father.* Our version, by its rendering, and by the division of verses, fails to give the full meaning, and there is thus, indeed, no reason for the assertion of the mutual knowledge of the Father and the Son. But connecting the words with those of the previous verse, we have, “I am the Good Shepherd, and know *those who are Mine, and those who are Mine know Me, even as the Father knoweth Me, and I know the Father.”* This deeper sense of union between the human spirit and Himself, and the wondrous likening of it to the union of Himself and the Father, is present to His mind as the close of His work on earth draws near. We find it again in John 14:20; John 15:10; John 17:8; John 17:21. It is bound up with the thought of the love which lays down His own life for them. This is repeated here and again in John 10:17-18.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
John 10:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to John 10:15
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge