In this week’s chapter Jesus identifies Himself as the Door of the Sheep and the Good Shepherd. He makes several blatant claims to divinity and narrowly avoids being stoned for them.
Study Notes: John10.pdf
Audio: John10.mp3
Have you noticed the disconnect between believers and unbelievers when it comes to hearing the voice of Jesus? Some of us take in Christ’s message and it immediately cuts to the heart. We are certain it has made an incredible impact before we even know exactly how. Others hear it and immediately question, doubt or argue.
As difficult as this difference in receptivity is to understand, we should not let it discourage us – or even surprise us. It’s a normal part of the difference between those who are the sheep of the Good Shepherd and those who are not.
Then the Jews surrounded Him and said to Him, “How long do You keep us in doubt? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.”
Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in My Father’s name, they bear witness of Me. But you do not believe, because you are not of My sheep, as I said to you. My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.” – John 10:24-28 (NKJV)
Don’t be shocked by hearing the voice of Jesus. Don’t ignore it. Don’t aplogize for it. Simply follow Him when you hear Him call.
Driving in your car or exercising can become a spiritual experience – if you have a copy of the Scriptures you can listen to at the same time. This is sonething I do constantly for study purposes.
At Horizon Central we normally use the New King James Version. It’s the version we teach from on Sundays and Wednesdays andits the version we give away to visitors who need a Bible. Thereforeit’s the version I like to listen to the most. Getting it on mp3 is inexpensive and ultra-super-way-flexible for listening at home, in the car, walking down the street, etc. Here’s the page from Thomas Nelson and they give you a few links to your favorite distributors.
Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. You can grow into a spiritual giant by spending enough time in the Word.
This chapter begins with a man who was blind from birth. The disciples, displaying little or no insight, ask, “Who sinned this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus responds by declaring Himself to be the Light of the World, and healing the blind man.
It’s difficult to argue with a man just healed from a lifetime of blindness, but that’s exactly what the Pharisees try to do as they confront him about his healing. The chapter ends with the Pharisees rejecting Jesus and the formerly blind man worshiping Him.
Audio: John09.mp3
Study Notes: John09.pdf
To see some photos and get some archaeological insights regarding the Pool of Siloam mentioned in this chapter, check out the following link: Bible Places
Central Reflections 