What does John 10:20 teach about recognizing Jesus' divine authority today? The Accusation in John 10:20 “Many of them were saying, ‘He is demon-possessed and insane; why would you listen to Him?’” What’s happening? • The crowd hears Jesus call Himself the Good Shepherd and one with the Father (John 10:11, 30). • Rather than weighing His words and works, they label Him demonic and irrational. • Their verdict: “Don’t listen.” This single verse captures the age-old fork in the road—dismiss Jesus or receive Him (John 1:11-12). The Heart Behind the Response • Spiritual blindness: 2 Corinthians 4:4 notes that unbelievers’ minds are veiled. • Pride: accepting Jesus’ claims means surrendering control (John 5:44). • Misplaced fear: fearing social or religious backlash more than God (John 9:22). Principles for Recognizing Jesus’ Divine Authority Today 1. Examine His Words – Jesus speaks with unmatched clarity and authority (Matthew 7:28-29). – Scripture consistently presents Him as God’s final Word (Hebrews 1:1-3). 2. Consider His Works – His miracles were public, verifiable signs (John 10:25, 38). – The resurrection seals every claim (Romans 1:4). 3. Listen for His Voice – “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me” (John 10:27). – The Spirit confirms that voice within believers (Romans 8:16). 4. Test Competing Claims – 1 John 4:1-3 urges us to test spirits by their view of Christ. – Any teaching that diminishes Jesus’ deity or authority echoes the crowd’s accusation. 5. Look at the Fruit – Following Jesus produces love, truth, and freedom (Galatians 5:22-23; John 8:31-32). – Rejection of Him corrodes hearts with confusion and division (John 10:19). 6. Submit, Don’t Spectate – Intellectual assent isn’t enough; surrender to His lordship (Luke 6:46). – Those who obey experience His shepherding care (John 10:28-29). Encouragement for Everyday Faith • When culture labels Jesus irrelevant or irrational, remember John 10:20—it’s not a new strategy. • Stand firm; the Shepherd still speaks through Scripture and Spirit. • Keep listening, keep following, and His authority will become increasingly undeniable in your life. |
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