How can we defend our faith when faced with accusations like in John 10:33? John 10:33 in Focus “‘We are not stoning You for any good work,’ said the Jews, ‘but for blasphemy, because You, who are a man, declare Yourself to be God.’” (John 10:33) Why the Accusation Matters • Jesus’ hearers understood His claim of deity—and rejected it. • Their charge of blasphemy was lethal, yet Jesus never softened the truth to avoid offense. • Similar accusations confront believers today: “Your gospel is intolerant,” “Your Bible is outdated,” “Your Jesus can’t be the only way.” How Jesus Responded (John 10:34-38) • He appealed to Scripture: “Is it not written in your Law, ‘I have said you are gods’?” (v 34, citing Psalm 82:6). • He highlighted His authenticated works: “Even if you do not believe Me, believe the works…” (v 38). • He stated His identity without compromise: “I and the Father are one” (v 30). Pattern: Scripture → evidence → clear confession. Defending Our Faith Today 1. Rely on the Written Word – Keep answers anchored in Scripture; God’s Word carries intrinsic authority (2 Timothy 3:16). – Quote accurately and in context; the same Law that silenced Jesus’ critics will vindicate His followers. 2. Point to Observable Fruit – Good works support our words (Matthew 5:16; 1 Peter 2:12). – Personal testimony of transformation is evidence modern culture cannot easily dismiss. 3. Confess Christ Openly – Do not blur the exclusivity of Jesus (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). – Avoid arguments that minimize His deity; the gospel loses power when diluted. 4. Keep a Prepared Heart – “Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15). – Preparation includes knowing Scripture, praying for wisdom, and cultivating a gentle, respectful tone. 5. Trust the Holy Spirit’s Role – He brings conviction (John 16:8) and grants the words we need (Luke 12:11-12). – Our task is faithfulness; results belong to God. Supporting Passages at a Glance • Psalm 82:6 — Jesus’ scriptural citation. • John 5:36 — Works testify of Him. • Acts 4:29-31 — Bold speech empowered by the Spirit. • 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 — Spiritual weapons demolish arguments. • Jude 3 — “Contend earnestly for the faith once for all delivered to the saints.” Practical Checklist for Conversations □ Pray before, during, after. □ Listen carefully; identify the real objection. □ Quote Scripture accurately. □ Share personal or historical evidence of Christ’s power. □ Stay respectful, avoiding personal attacks. □ Leave the door open for further discussion. Encouragement to Stand Firm Accusations like those in John 10:33 will come, but Scripture is reliable, Christ’s works remain undeniable, and the same Lord who faced hostility now lives in us. Stand on His Word, display His works, and confess His name without fear. |
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