J.A. Matteson
By the predetermined council of the Father the Good Shepherd knows each of His sheep, including those who have yet to confess Him; and by means of His atonement He owns them, ransomed vessels destined to walk in good deeds ordained for them before the foundation of the world. "I have other sheep, which are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will hear My voice; and they will become one flock with one shepherd" (Jn. 10:16). Speaking of future Gentile sheep who will experience regeneration and conversion, the effectual call of the Gospel is distinctly proclaimed by Christ. Many Jews and Gentiles will hear, but only the sheep respond in faith. The goats listen but cannot hear because they are not the sheep given to the Son by His Father (Jn. 10:26-27). The sheep respond in faith because they have first been given ears to hear, being made alive in Christ Jesus in the likeness of Lydia, "...the Lord opened her heart to respond to the things spoken by Paul" (Acts 16:14). The LORD is building His church, calling forth in each generation sheep of a chosen race, a holy people who will testify of His mercy and grace. Into these mysteries the heavenly host sing His praises. With great confidence the sheep may testify of His Gospel, being assured that His chosen sheep will hear and believe. In this regard the servants of the Lord rejoice, for their striving is not in vain, but their faithfulness establishes His purposes of redemption from eternity.
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