REFLECTIONS ON JOHN
10:19-30
This passage from the Gospel of
John describes an encounter that took place toward the end of Jesus’ ministry.
The verbal exchange occurs at the temple, the place where Israelites felt
almost tangibly the presence of God, so it is ironic that it is here where this
heated discussion about Jesus’ identity takes place.
Jesus
has made some claims that many hearers don’t understand - he is a shepherd who
will give his life for his followers but who has power to take up his life
again. Jesus states that he and God, “the Father,” are one.
Jesus’
opponents demand an answer. “Are you really the Messiah we have waited for?” It
appears there are two significant groups – those who are considering the
evidence of three years of Jesus’ teaching about a Kingdom that wasn’t what
they expected, as well as witnessing his deeds that are not just great, but deeds of power and
moral excellence. These questioners are
open to a new understanding of what it means to be kingdom people. The others
stubbornly hold to their view of a militant Savior who will rescue God’s people
but keep their cultural and religious traditions intact.
Jesus
answers the skeptics with patience, giving them an opportunity to reconsider
their resistance. He asks them to at least believe the good works as evidence
of his Father’s love and care, even if they do not accept him as his Son.
Did the
opponents really want more signs? Would another miracle convince them of his
divinity? I doubt it! I think their inflexibility
was probably because they didn’t want to let go of long held attitudes and
routines, and completely transform their lives.
But for
those early believers and for those of us today who recognize Jesus as the Good
Shepherd who cares for “his sheep “and who trust in his promise of eternal
life, we do not need all our questions answered. We can confidently trust the
holy Shepherd to lead us safely through lush green fields, and also the dark
valleys. What a tremendous promise, that no one can snatch us from the hands of
Almighty God!
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