Rejected by the Religious Leaders
February 7, 2022
Commentary
Bible scholars say that approximately two months had passed between the previous account and these events. The “feast of the dedication” (Hanukkah) (v. 22) takes place in December, which is near the time when we celebrate our Christmas. This feast celebrates the rededication of the temple by Judas Maccabeaus in 164 B.C., after it had been desecrated by the Romans. The leaders surrounded Jesus in the Temple so that He would have to stop and listen to them (vv. 21-23). They had decided that it was time for a “showdown.” They said; “If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly” (v.24). Jesus made a statement that He knew would only give these religious leaders more reason to oppose Him (vv. 25-29). It was the “plain answer” they had asked for. “I and my Father are one” (v. 30).
The Jews were still confronting Jesus about what He said! Christ pointed out to them that they were not “of His sheep” and therefore could not believe. At this point He gives a beautiful description of true Christians who are His sheep. Sheep are a beautiful illustration of the characteristics of Christians: Sheep are clean animals, just as Christians have been cleansed from their sin. Sheep flock together, and so do true believers. Sheep are harmless, and Christians should be blameless and harmless. Sheep are prone to wander and so are we! Sheep need a shepherd for protection, guidance, and food; and we need Christ for spiritual protection, daily guidance, and spiritual food. Sheep are useful and productive; so are true Christians. Finally, sheep were used for sacrifices; and Christians are willing to yield themselves to Christ as “living sacrifices” (Rom. 12:1).
Application
Lord, help me to see things from your prospective and not mine.
John 10:22– 30 (NET)
22 Then came the feast of the Dedication in Jerusalem. 23 It was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple area in Solomon’s Portico. 24 The Jewish leaders surrounded him and asked, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” 25 Jesus replied, “I told you and you do not believe. The deeds I do in my Father’s name testify about me. 26 But you refuse to believe because you are not my sheep. 27 My sheep listen to my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish; no one will snatch them from my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can snatch them from my Father’s hand. 30 The Father and I are one.”