John 10, Part 5

Scripture: John 10:22-42

Observation: The Pharisees are fed up with Jesus' figures of speech and demand that He state whether or not He is the Messiah (v.24). Although at no point did Jesus actually say "I am the Messiah," He can honestly say He has told them, based on the signs they have seen (v.25). However, they are not of His flock and therefore don't believe (v.26). Jesus then makes the biggest claim yet: "The Father and I are one (v.30)." The Jews are ready to stone Jesus for blasphemy, because He has claimed equality with God. Jesus, in His loving grace, tries to reason with them, showing that He has done no wrong. Jesus reminds them that Scripture called those who received the word "gods" (Psalm 82:6), though His claim is greater, because He is the Son of God. Those before Him received the Word, while Jesus IS the Word (John 1:1). He then tells them to test His veracity: "Even though you do not believe Me, believe the works (v.38)". He tells them to accept the fact that He is in the Father and the Father in Him (v.38), which only makes them angrier and they try to arrest Him, but He escapes. Jesus crosses the Jordan, where many whose hearts are receptive come to hear Him, and believe.

Application: With all that was before their eyes, the Pharisees refused to accept and demanded Jesus tell them His true identity. Yet when He did, they tried to kill Him! God's word is plain and clear, but many today refuse see. There are many who, like the Pharisees, deny Jesus' deity even when He pronounces it Himself. Some call Him a prophet, others an angel, anyone other than God. Only the humble sheep can see who He really is. If we want to know Jesus, we must humble ourselves and accept Him for who He proved Himself to be: God the Son.

Prayer: Thank You Lord, for removing the blinders that didn't let me see You! Thank You for showing me Your true self through Your Word, and removing all deceit! Help me to help others see You as I can now see You. The Truth that can set us free is You, Lord Jesus! In Your Name I pray, Amen.