What is the meaning of John 10:23?

Jesus was walking

John records, “and Jesus was walking…” (John 10:23).

• A literal, eyewitness detail anchoring the scene in history (cf. Luke 24:15–16).

• The Good Shepherd is on the move among His flock, just as He “goes before them” (John 10:4).

• Accessible and approachable, mirroring the incarnation: “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14).

• Ministry in motion—He continually seeks, teaches, and heals (see Mark 6:34).

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in the temple courts

These outer courts were the most public area of the temple.

• Open to all, including God-fearing Gentiles (Isaiah 56:7; Acts 8:27-28).

• Fulfills Malachi 3:1—“the Lord… will suddenly come to His temple”.

• Jesus had already purified this space (John 2:14-17); now He fills it with truth.

• Occurs during the Feast of Dedication (John 10:22), tying His presence to themes of cleansing and light (John 8:12).

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in Solomon’s Colonnade

A long, covered portico along the temple’s east side.

• Provided shelter in winter and room for crowds.

• Named for the temple-builder Solomon, yet “something greater than Solomon is here” (Matthew 12:42).

• Later becomes the church’s gathering place (Acts 3:11; 5:12), showing continuity between Jesus’ ministry and the apostles’.

• An ideal setting for open dialogue; Jesus taught “nothing in secret” (John 18:20).

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summary

John 10:23 isn’t a throwaway travel note. It portrays a real, bodily Messiah deliberately positioning Himself in the heart of Israel’s worship, walking among ordinary people, fulfilling prophecy, and inviting every listener to hear the Shepherd’s voice and follow.