This is to be understood in the light of the sheep “hearing” His voice and “following” Him. It is therefore conditional! 5th, Their Present Position — “Neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand—no man is able to pluck them out of My Father’s hand” 6th, Their Powerful Protection — “My Father, which gave them Me, is greater than all … I and My Father are one.” It is very clear that this passage makes the positive assertion that “they shall never perish.” It is just as clear in asserting that