April 19, 2026 – You Promised: You Will Hear My Voice – John 10:22-30
In John 10:22-30, Jesus is questioned by Jewish leaders during Hanukkah at the Temple regarding his identity as the Messiah. He states that his works, done in his Father’s name, already testify to who he is, but they do not believe because they are not his sheep. Jesus promises his followers eternal life and security, declaring that no one can snatch them out of his or the Father’s hand, concluding, “I and the Father are one”.
Key Themes and Details:
- Setting: Winter during the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) in Solomon’s Porch at the Temple.
- The Confrontation: People demand to know if Jesus is the Messiah (“Christ”) to test or accuse him.
- The Shepherd’s Sheep: Jesus explains that his sheep recognize his voice, he knows them, and they follow him.
- Divine Security: Jesus promises his sheep never perish and are safe in his and the Father’s hands.
- Unity with God: Jesus claims divine unity, stating he and the Father are one in purpose and essence.
John 10:22-30 NRSV
Jesus Is Rejected by the Jews
22 At that time the Festival of the Dedication took place in Jerusalem. It was winter, 23 and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the portico of Solomon. 24 So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah,[a] tell us plainly.” 25 Jesus answered, “I have told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father’s name testify to me, 26 but you do not believe because you do not belong to my sheep. 27 My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, in regard to what he has given me, is greater than all,[b] and no one can snatch them out of the Father’s hand. 30 The Father and I are one.”
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