How should believers respond to accusations against their faith like in John 10:20? Setting the Scene in John 10:20 “Many of them said, ‘He is possessed by a demon and is insane; why listen to Him?’” (John 10:20) What This Teaches About Accusations • Even the sinless Son of God faced slander. • Unbelieving hearts often label truth as madness or evil. • Hostility toward the gospel is not evidence of its falseness but of the world’s blindness (2 Corinthians 4:4). First Response: Expect Opposition Without Surprise • Jesus foretold that disciples would be treated as He was (John 15:18–20). • Knowing this ahead of time steadies the heart; opposition confirms, rather than contradicts, Christ’s warnings. Second Response: Stand Firm in Truth • “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Hold to the literal, inerrant Word; Scripture’s reliability does not waver with public opinion. Third Response: Answer with Clarity and Gentleness • “Always be prepared to give a defense…yet with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). • A calm, reasoned reply highlights the contrast between light and darkness (Proverbs 15:1). Fourth Response: Let Works Validate Words • Jesus pointed skeptics to His deeds (John 10:25, 37–38). • Consistent Christlike conduct silences foolish accusations (1 Peter 2:12, 15). Fifth Response: Rely on the Spirit, Not Human Persuasion • “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing” (John 6:63). • Pray that the Spirit opens hearts; only He transforms opposition into faith (Acts 16:14). Practical Takeaways for Today – Expect misunderstanding; don’t personalize the attack. – Anchor every response in Scripture, quoted accurately. – Speak truth plainly, avoiding quarrels (2 Timothy 2:24–25). – Exhibit the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness (Galatians 5:22–23). – Trust God for results; faithfulness is success (1 Corinthians 4:1–2). Looking Ahead with Confidence Slander in John 10:20 did not hinder Christ’s mission; He pressed on to the cross and resurrection. In the same way, modern accusations cannot thwart God’s plan for His people. Stand firm, speak graciously, and let the unchanging Word vindicate itself. |
    |