“I am the good shepherd. I know My own and My own know Me, just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep,” Jesus declared (John 10:14–15). Those who belong to God listen to Christ and follow Him as sheep follow their shepherd (John 10:1–5). Jesus revealed that other sheep would join to become one flock with one shepherd (John 10:16). 

As the good shepherd, Christ declared, “For this reason the Father loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it up again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of My own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from My Father” (John 10:17–18). This is the saving message of Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1–4).

Is Christ your shepherd? Are you among His flock? Do you hear His voice and follow Him? He is the only one who has the authority to take up life again.