1. The Gospel of John is a tremendous source of information that will help us to grow in the knowledge of Christ (2 Peter 3:18). 2. This lesson is a study of the information revealed in John 10:22-42. 3. Earlier in this chapter Jesus identified Himself as: a. "the door of the sheep" (vs.7) b. "the good Shepherd" (vs.11). 4. Jesus used this imagery to describe the close relationship that He has with His followers. 5. We learn from vs.22-42 how there was opposition from the Jews during "the feast of the dedication."
Discussion:
I. (John 10:22-23) THE SETTING FOR WHAT HAPPENED IS REVEALED
A. (vs.22a) The location was Jerusalem. B. (vs.22b) The occasion was "the feast of the dedication" (Hanukkah). 1. It was an 8-day feast observed in December (winter). 2. The Jews began observing it around 165 B. C. when the temple was cleansed and rededicated. C. (vs.23) Jesus "walked in the temple in Solomon's porch" (also mentioned in Acts 3:11; 5:12).
II. (John 10:24-39) THE JEWS CHALLENGED JESUS ABOUT HIS IDENTITY, AND HE RESPONDED
A. (vs.24) The Jews challenged Jesus to speak directly about His identity. B. (vs.25-30) Jesus repeated the information He had already stated about His relationship with the Father. C. (vs.31-32) The Jews wanted to stone the Lord (8:59), and He questioned them. D. (vs.33) The Jews accused Jesus of blasphemy (Leviticus 24:16). E. (vs.34-38) Jesus reasoned with the Jews from Psalm 82:6; Exodus 4:16; 7:1. F. (vs.39) The Jews tried to take Jesus again, but He escaped.
III. (John 10:40-42) JESUS RETREATED TO "BEYOND JORDAN" WHERE MANY BELIEVED ON HIM
A. This is the location where John had baptized. B. Many accepted John's testimony and believed on the Lord.
