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Call to worship: Psalm 145:1-13

Text: John 10:31-42

Summary:

Jesus having just declared himself one with the Father, the Jews intend to kill Jesus on the spot. But Jesus keeps his head, and points to his actions, done in broad daylight. As the Jews respond, Jesus confronts their use of Scripture. But more than that, he shows them that their judgement is flawed. They don't hear the shepherd's voice, and they are blind to his good works. They may know the Law but they are oblivious to its application and worse, unresponsive to its judgement of them. And so, Jesus departs the scene unscathed, and the people he soon finds are an additional indictment of the Jewish leaders' failure. The shepherds have fared no better than their fathers, but these people are prepared to hear his words, see his actions, and respond in faith.

Sermon Outline:

1. Recalling the works of Jesus, vv.31-32
2. Recalling the words of Jesus, vv.33-36
3. Recalling the mission of Jesus
   • Revealing the glory of Jesus, vv.37-38
   • Separating a people for Jesus, vv.39-42

Prepare

Discussion Questions:

1. Read John 10:31-42.
2. Try to recall Jesus' actions to this point in the gospel of John (v.32). What stands out to you? What reasons have the Jewish leaders given for rejecting Jesus' teaching or finding fault with his deeds? Hasty disciples and the twelve have also seen and heard Jesus. How have they responded?
3. What do we learn about Jesus' "doctrine of Scripture" from these verses (see especially vv.34-35)? Read Psalm 82. How does this Psalm relate to the themes of John 10:31-42? How does Scripture impact daily decisions? How does it inform our worldview?
4. What is it about Jesus' "works" that point to the truth of his words concerning his relationship to the Father? How would you describe the goal or "reason" behind Jesus' actions? Is he just responding in the moment, without a plan? Is there a motive you can read between the lines of Scripture? How does Jesus himself suggest we should respond to his actions (v.38)?
5. How do those in the vicinity of the Jordan respond to Jesus? How do Jesus' words and actions correspond with what John has spoken about him (1:19-34)?