“This is why my Father loves me, because I lay down my life, in order that I might take it again ”

We are reminded here that the Father is equally as interested in and concerned about the sheep as Jesus is, and responds in full measure to His Son's action in giving His life for the sheep. But note the affirmation that that will not be the end, for when He has died Jesus Himself will take back His life by resurrection. Thus, unlike in the natural world, the sheep will still have their sacrificing Shepherd to watch over them, and because He has risen they too will rise again at the last day. Note that here His death and resurrection are seen to be of His own doing. He is in total control of events.

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