Words from the Rock
I told you already, but you did not believe. The miracles I do in my Father’s name show who I am. But you don’t believe, because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never die, and no one can steal them out of my hand. My Father gave my sheep to me. He is greater than all, and no person can steal my sheep out of my Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.
John 10:25–30 NCV
Jesus is responding to some of the “educated” Jews who are questioning him for the umpteenth time. Jesus probably knows that they don’t really want answers and that they’re not actually seeking the truth. It’s clear from the previous verses that they’re more interested in slamming Jesus than anything. In fact, they’ve just accused him of being demonized or insane. Their goal is obvious—they want to put him down.
When people put others down, it’s usually because they hope to make themselves look bigger or better. In this case, these guys probably want to appear scholarly and superior to the onlookers, some of whom actually believe Jesus and want to hear more of his teachings. Jesus, just like his Father, does not waste anything. He uses this as an opportunity to teach about who he really is.
He makes it clear that the guys hassling him are not his sheep (his followers). If they were, they wouldn’t be saying such nasty things to him. They wouldn’t be so cynical and mean. Jesus points out, once again, that his sheep listen to his voice because they know him and he knows them. He also makes it clear that his sheep will be protected. In essence, they’re in a safety zone. No one is going to be able to come in and hurt them.
Jesus promises his sheep (and us) eternal life, and he assures us that as long as we remain in his safety zone, no one can steal us away—not even cruel people who would attempt to fill our heads with lies. We remain safe with Jesus because God is in control and because he and Jesus are one.
My Prayer
Dear God,
I realize that when people put you down, it’s because they don’t know you. I’m so thankful I know you! And I’m thankful that you’ll protect me from those who would try to steal my heart from you.
Amen.
Final Word
Though I am surrounded by troubles, you will protect me from the anger of my enemies. You reach out your hand, and the power of your right hand saves me.
Psalm 138:7 NLT
Stone for the Journey
I am safe because God knows me and I know him.