What Old Testament scripture is Jesus referencing in John 10:34? The Passage in Question (John 10:34) • “Jesus replied, ‘Is it not written in your Law: “I have said you are gods”?’” • The setting: Jesus is responding to leaders who accuse Him of blasphemy for claiming oneness with the Father (vv. 30–33). The Old Testament Source: Psalm 82:6 • “I have said, ‘You are gods; you are all sons of the Most High.’” • Psalm 82 addresses Israel’s judges—called “gods” (Hebrew elohim) because they exercised delegated, divine authority in rendering judgments (cf. Exodus 21:6; 22:8–9). • God confronts those judges for corrupt rulings and warns of accountability (Psalm 82:2–7). Why Jesus Chose Psalm 82 • Demonstrates His deep command of Scripture: He cites a psalm the leaders would know well. • Undercuts the charge of blasphemy: If human judges can be called “gods” without offense, how much more the One the Father sanctified and sent (John 10:35–36). • Affirms the unbreakable authority of Scripture: “Scripture cannot be broken” (v. 35), reinforcing its absolute accuracy and reliability. How the Psalm Functions in Jesus’ Argument 1. Lesser-to-Greater logic – Human judges, fallible and mortal, received a divine title. – Jesus, the consecrated Son, bears the fullness of deity; His claim is greater and therefore valid. 2. Exposure of hypocrisy – The leaders honor Psalm 82 in theory yet reject its larger message of righteous judgment, mirroring the very corruption the psalm condemns. 3. Invitation to recognize His works – Immediately after citing Psalm 82, Jesus appeals to His miracles as confirmation of His divine origin (John 10:37–38). Key Takeaways for Today • Scripture interprets Scripture: New Testament references guide us back to original contexts for richer understanding. • Titles matter, but mission matters more: Jesus’ identity is verified not merely by words but by works aligned with the Father’s will. • God holds every authority figure accountable; integrity in judgment remains a timeless divine expectation. |
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