How can John 10:24 inspire us to ask honest questions about our beliefs? Setting the scene John 10 finds Jesus in Solomon’s Colonnade during the Feast of Dedication. Surrounded by a group of Jews who are wrestling with His identity, the atmosphere is charged with expectation and tension. Looking at the text John 10:24: “So the Jews gathered around Him and demanded, ‘How long will You keep us in suspense? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.’” Lessons on asking honest questions • Their question is direct. They do not settle for vague impressions; they want clarity on the most important issue—who Jesus is. • They acknowledge suspense. Recognizing inner doubt is the first step toward genuine understanding. • They seek a plain answer. Honest faith pursues truth in unmistakable terms, not half-measures or evasions. • Jesus does not rebuke the act of questioning itself (see vv. 25-30). Instead, He answers by pointing to His works and His words, calling them to examine evidence. Practical steps forward • Admit when your heart feels “in suspense.” Bring uncertainties into the light rather than burying them. • Go straight to Scripture for plain answers, trusting every word as accurate and literal (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Evaluate evidence: Jesus pointed to His works; we can review fulfilled prophecy, historical reliability, and personal testimonies (Isaiah 53; Luke 24:44). • Expect clarity, not ambiguity. God delights to make truth plain to sincere seekers (Jeremiah 29:13). • Keep motives pure. Unlike some opponents who were only testing Him, come ready to follow wherever the answer leads (John 7:17). Supporting Scriptures • Matthew 7:7-8 — persistent asking, seeking, knocking receives an answer. • James 1:5 — God gives wisdom generously to those who ask in faith. • Psalm 25:5 — “Lead me in Your truth and teach me.” • Acts 17:11 — the Bereans examined the Scriptures daily to verify Paul’s message. • 1 Peter 3:15 — always be ready to give a reason for the hope within you, implying continual honest examination of what you believe. John 10:24 reminds us that when eternity is at stake, it is right—and necessary—to ask Jesus plainly, listen carefully, and let His revealed truth settle every doubt. |
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