•AX SERMON. JOHN x, 16. AND OTHER Sheep I have, which are NOT OF THIs fold. THEM ALSO I MUST BRING; AND THEY SHALL HEAR MY VOICE; AND THERE SHALL BE ONE FOLD, AND ONE SHEP. HERD. In this discourse our Saviour, adopting the beautiful figurative language of the prophets on the same subject, styles his followers his sheep; and himself, the good Shepherd. Perhaps, no image could have been selected with greater felicity. It is suggested by the voice of nature. The object of allusion has ever been regarded by mankind as one of the most striking exemplifications, found in the natural world, of innocence, dependence, and amiableness. How often do we hear the affectionate mother, smiling over her beloved infant, utter all her tenderness and attachment in language derived from this source. How often has the poet selected this interesting subject as the theme, on which he meant to lavish in his most melodious numbers the utmost elegance of his conceptions, and the most gentle and amiable feelings of his heart. How beautifully does the Prophet Isaiah present to us the same flock, under the guidance of the same Shepherd, when he says, "They shall feed in the ways; and they shall be in all high places. They shall not hunger, nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he, that hath mercy on them shall lead them; even by the springs of water shall he guide them." Who, that has either piety, or taste, has not found these emo |
