John 10:12
But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.
John 10:12 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, Jesus is speaking about the difference between a true shepherd and a hireling. A hireling is someone who is only in it for the money and does not genuinely care for the well-being of the sheep. When danger approaches, such as a wolf coming to attack the sheep, the hireling will abandon the flock and flee to save themselves. This leaves the sheep vulnerable to the attacks of the enemy, and they end up being scattered and harmed.
Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, contrasts Himself with hirelings, emphasizing His care and dedication to His followers. He is willing to lay down His life for the sheep, ensuring their safety and protection at all costs. This verse serves as a reminder to believers to be wary of false leaders who do not have their best interests at heart. It encourages them to seek out genuine shepherds who will guide, protect, and nurture them in their faith.
By understanding the significance of this verse, readers can discern the qualities of a true leader in their spiritual journey and avoid falling prey to those who are only motivated by selfish desires. It highlights the importance of having a shepherd who is invested in the well-being of their flock and leads them with love, compassion, and integrity.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse highlights the contrast between a true shepherd and a hireling. In this analogy, the shepherd represents Jesus, who cares for and protects his flock, while the hireling represents someone who is only interested in personal gain and lacks the genuine love and commitment to the sheep. The hireling, motivated by selfishness and self-preservation, abandons the flock when faced with danger, leaving the vulnerable sheep unprotected. This demonstrates the importance of having a genuine, selfless leader who is willing to sacrifice and protect those under their care, as opposed to someone who is only in it for their own benefit. Through this interpretation, the verse teaches believers about the qualities of a true shepherd and the importance of following Jesus, the Good Shepherd.
John 10:12 in other translations
American Standard Version
He that is a hireling, and not a shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, beholdeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth, and the wolf snatcheth them, and scattereth [them] :
World English Bible
He who is a hired hand, and not a shepherd, who doesn’t own the sheep, sees the wolf coming, leaves the sheep, and flees. The wolf snatches the sheep, and scatters them.
Douay-Rheims
But the hireling and he that is not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming and leaveth the sheep and flieth: and the wolf casteth and scattereth the sheep,
Geneva Bible (1599)
But an hireling, and hee which is not the shepheard, neither the sheepe are his owne, seeth the wolfe comming, and hee leaueth the sheepe, and fleeth, and the wolfe catcheth them, and scattreth the sheepe.