The Gospel of John #59

by Robert E. Guenther
  Continuing our review of the Gospel of John, Chapter 10:22-32. Our Lord is using a parable concerning sheep and their shepherd to explain His relationship to His people Israel. His own people when they hear His voice will follow Him. The rest of the world will not.
    Vs John 10:22 “And it was at Jerusalem the feast of the dedication, and it was winter.” This feast commemorates the rededication of the second temple following the Maccabean revolt. This festival was normally held for eight days in November or December (today it is called Hanukkah) Jews would know these dates, however for the Gentiles sake, John adds ‘and it was winter.’
    Vs John 10:23 “And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon's porch.” Or “the porch of judgement” which was located on the east side of the outer court. Solomon used this location to make judgements and exercise justice.
    Vs John 10:24 “Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly.” Some of these Jews must have thought that He was trying to trick or deceive them. The signs that He used to reveal the truth was plain to those who believed in Him.
    Vs John 10:25 “Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of me.” The Jews required signs and He told them which signs to expect and He performed them.
    Vs John 10:26 “But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you.” Those believers who had accepted Him knew who He was and were called His sheep because they were willing to trust Him.
    Vs John 10:27 “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:” They have ears to hear, recognize His voice and follow Him.
    Vs John 10:28 “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” These sheep follow after Him because He loves them and gives them age abiding life. No one is able to pluck (remove them from His care). Complete security in Him who is our life.
    Vs John 10:29 “My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. Our Heavenly Father is more powerful than any other being. No one compares to Him.
    Vs John 10:30 “I and my Father are one.” Christ Jesus even the Father are equal in every way.
    Vs John 10:31 “Then the Jews took up stones again to stone Him.” The Jews want to stone Him because they refuse to believe that He is God.
    Vs John 10:32 “Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?” They have no real good answer so they make one up.                                          …to be continued...