John 10:14
“I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Within his teaching on the good shepherd, Jesus describes the mutual knowing between himself and his sheep, comparing it in the next verse to his bond with the Father.
What Does John 10:14 Mean?
John 10:14 returns to the great image of the good shepherd, now highlighting the intimate relationship between the shepherd and his flock: "I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine." Beyond protection and provision, Jesus speaks of a deep, mutual knowing.
The word "know" here means far more than knowing about someone. It is the personal, relational knowing of those who truly belong to each other. Jesus says he "knows" his sheep -- each one, individually, as a shepherd recognizes the members of his flock. And, wonderfully, the sheep know him in return: he is "known of mine." This is not a one-way arrangement where the sheep are merely cared for from a distance; it is a genuine relationship of recognition and trust running both directions. In the next verse Jesus compares this knowing to the bond between himself and the Father, lifting it to the highest possible standard. To belong to Christ, then, is to be known by him personally and to come to know him in turn. The good shepherd is not a stranger managing an anonymous herd. He knows you, and he invites you to know him.
In the Original Language
The Greek "ginosko" (know) denotes personal, relational knowledge rather than mere information. "Ta ema" (mine) marks the sheep who belong to him and know him in return.
Cross References
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:”
- John 10:27
“Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”
- 2 Timothy 2:19
“But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?”
- Galatians 4:9
Application
The good shepherd knows you personally and invites you to know him in return. Walk with him not as a stranger but in a real, growing relationship of trust.