What can we learn from the Jews' response to Jesus in John 10:19? Setting the Scene “Again there was division among the Jews because of Jesus’ message.” (John 10:19) Immediately after calling Himself the Good Shepherd (John 10:11–18), Jesus’ words split His listeners into two camps: some claimed He was demon-possessed (v. 20); others saw His miracles and could not dismiss Him (v. 21). What Their Division Reveals about Jesus • His teaching forces a decision. – Luke 12:51 “Do you think that I have come to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division.” • His claims are unmistakably divine. – John 10:30 “I and the Father are one.” • He is the prophetic “stone of stumbling” (Isaiah 8:14; 1 Peter 2:7-8). • His works confirm His words, leaving unbelief without excuse (John 10:25, 32). What Their Division Reveals about the Human Heart • Truth confronts pre-committed loyalties. Tradition, power, and self-interest often trump evidence (John 11:48). • Spiritual blindness is real. Miracles can be seen yet rejected (John 9:41). • Neutrality is impossible. The crowd had to label Jesus either insane or inspired—there was no middle ground (John 10:20-21). • The sheep hear His voice; those who are not His sheep do not (John 10:26-27). Lessons for Believers Today • Expect the gospel to divide opinion (Acts 14:4; 28:24). • Do not measure truth by majority response; measure by Scripture (Psalm 119:160). • Opposition can signal faithfulness, not failure (2 Timothy 3:12). • Hold to Christ’s words even when labeled foolish (1 Corinthians 1:18). • Let the Spirit, not public pressure, shape convictions (Galatians 1:10). Responding Personally • Examine whether you recognize the Shepherd’s voice (John 10:27). • Refuse to be swayed by cultural currents; anchor in God’s inerrant Word (John 17:17). • Stand firm, knowing that division over Jesus is predicted and purposeful—He separates light from darkness (2 Corinthians 2:15-16). |
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