What is the meaning of John 10:21? But others replied “Division again occurred among the Jews because of Jesus’ message” (John 10:19). Some were accusing Jesus of being demon-possessed (v. 20), yet “others replied.” • Scripture often records a split response whenever truth is proclaimed—compare John 7:12, 43; 9:16. • These “others” refuse to accept the reckless charge that the Good Shepherd (John 10:11) is in league with darkness. • Their reaction models discernment: they weigh the evidence rather than echo the crowd (Proverbs 18:13; Acts 17:11). They remind us that every person must personally decide whether to label Jesus a deceiver, a madman, or Lord (Matthew 16:13-16). These are not the words of a man possessed by a demon Demons produce chaos and falsehood (John 8:44; Mark 1:23-26), yet Jesus speaks coherence, compassion, and authority. • Even officers sent to arrest Him earlier confessed, “Never has anyone spoken like this man!” (John 7:46). • The “words” in question include His claims to be the gate, the Shepherd who lays down His life, and the giver of eternal life (John 10:7-18). • No demon-controlled person ever taught with unbroken truthfulness (John 8:46) or offered soul-rest (Matthew 11:28-30). The listeners rightly conclude that such wholesome, life-giving teaching cannot originate from evil. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind? The open-eyed beggar of John 9 still stood as living proof that Jesus’ power is divine. • Healing congenital blindness fulfilled messianic prophecy—“Then the eyes of the blind will be opened” (Isaiah 35:5; cf. Psalm 146:8). • Jesus Himself pointed to this sign when identifying His mission: “The blind receive sight” (Matthew 11:4-6). • Darkness cannot produce light; Satan blinds (2 Corinthians 4:4) but never grants sight. • Each miracle validates Jesus’ claim, “I and the Father are one” (John 10:30). Rejecting such evidence would be willful unbelief, not honest skepticism. summary John 10:21 captures the pivotal moment when clear-eyed observers weigh Jesus’ words and works against the slander that He is demon-possessed. Their conclusion is sound: teaching that uplifts and a miracle that gives sight point unmistakably to God’s hand. The verse invites every reader to the same verdict—embrace the Shepherd whose voice rings true and whose power opens blind eyes, both physical and spiritual. |
    |