Gospel Outreach International

Have you ever wondered how we can remain steadfast in our faith during times of persecution or cultural opposition? In this Bible study, we explore Jesus’ confrontation with religious leaders during the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) in Jerusalem. Through this passage in John 10:22-42, we discover profound truths about Christ’s identity, our security in Him, and our calling to be lights in a dark world—just as Jesus proclaimed Himself to be the Light of the World. This study invites us to consider how we can remain faithful witnesses in increasingly challenging times while resting in the absolute security we have in Christ’s hands.

Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father’s name bear witness about me,” John 10:25

Setting and Historical Context

• The passage takes place during the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) in Jerusalem
• This feast commemorated the Maccabees’ victory over the Greeks and the rededication of the temple around 164-165 BC
• Also called the “Feast of Lights” due to the legendary miraculous provision of oil in the temple
• This feast symbolizes staying faithful to God during times of persecution

Jesus’ Confrontation with Religious Leaders

• The Jews surrounded Jesus in Solomon’s porch in the temple
• They demanded, “How long do you keep us in doubt? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly”
• Jesus responded that He had already told them, but they wouldn’t believe
• The evidence of His miracles and teachings clearly pointed to His identity

The Shepherd and His Sheep

• Jesus emphasized that His sheep hear His voice and follow Him
• Many reject Christ not because they haven’t been told, but because they aren’t listening
• True followers not only hear but also serve in Christ’s kingdom

Triple Security for Believers

• Jesus gives His followers eternal life (quality of life)
• They shall never perish (everlasting duration)
• No one can pluck them out of His hand (divine protection)
• We are kept secure in both the Father’s and Son’s hands

Jesus Claims Deity

• Jesus boldly declared “I and the Father are one”
• This claim caused the Jews to take up stones to kill Him
• Jesus defended His claim by pointing to Scripture (Psalm 82:6) and His works
• His claim to deity was central to His conflict with the religious leaders

Rejection and Departure

• Despite clear evidence, the religious leaders rejected Jesus
• Jesus escaped and departed beyond the Jordan
• This departure symbolized God’s withdrawal from those who persistently reject Him
• A warning about the consequences of lukewarm faith or unbelief

Contrast with John the Baptist

• Jesus went to where John had baptized
• People noted that while John performed no miracles, everything he said about Jesus was true
• Many believed in Jesus there
• The message of repentance connects John, Jesus, and the early church

If I am not doing the works of my Father, then do not believe me; John 10:37

Jesus’ remarkable statement that “I and the Father are one” reminds us that we face a pivotal choice: either accept Him for who He claims to be—fully God and fully man—or reject Him entirely. What’s particularly touching about this passage is how Jesus speaks of His relationship with us, declaring that no one can snatch us from His hand. This beautiful promise of security reminds us that even when we stumble, Jesus never lets go of those who truly belong to Him. As we go about our weeks, let’s remember that just as Jesus shone brightly in the darkness of His time, we too are called to reflect His light in our increasingly challenging world. Let’s be faithful ambassadors, allowing Christ’s presence within us to illuminate the path for others still walking in darkness.

Bible References

• John 10:22-40
• Psalm 34:7
• Psalm 82:6
• Exodus 21:6
• Job 19:25
• Deuteronomy 33:27
• Isaiah 40:31
• Colossians 1:27
• 1 John 1:9