“I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” (11) In contrast to all others, Jesus is the “good shepherd.” His primary characteristic is seen in the love that lays down His life for sheep. He is not a hired hand who is not the “owner” or is motivated merely by profit and not love. In danger, a hired man protects himself rather than the sheep. He does know the sheep or they him. Jesus, our good shepherd, sees the sheep beyond the present fold [future church] who will also respond to His voice. The good shepherd sees beyond this [His] life to what is gained by laying down this one. Thus, the good shepherd is distinguished by His motives, His relationship with sheep, His ability to see beyond the present flock, and to see beyond His own pain, suffering and death.