The Jewish religious leaders in Jerusalem were perplexed when they saw Jesus’ powerful teachings and miraculous works. They had an erroneous view of the Messiah. They believed that the Messiah would be a future Jewish king and rule physically in great power. As a result of this they responded to Jesus with unbelief. Jesus proved that his works gave credence to the fact that he was the Messiah. The religious leaders did not listen to his voice nor follow him for they were not Jesus’ sheep. Those who respond in repentance and faith are Jesus’ true sheep. He gives them the promise of eternal life. No one can snatch his sheep from the Father’s hand, because he would pay the full ransom for their sins on the cross, and secure their eternal life through his resurrection. In Jesus’ love and protection, his sheep are free from the condemnation of sin.

The Jewish leaders also rejected Jesus’ testimony, “I and the Father are one,” and tried to stone him. Jesus defended himself by quoting Psalm 82:6 of the judges of Israel. Jesus is the Son of God whom the Father set apart as his very own and sent into the world for his work of salvation. Jesus’ messianic works were clear evidence that God is in him and he is in God.
Application: Lord, you are the Son of God who gives us eternal life. Help me listen to you and follow you.
One Word: Jesus gives eternal life