John 10:19-21 – Division among Christ’s hearers

It was indeed sad to note that there were divisions among the people confronted with the truth of Jesus. A majority of the Pharisees could not accept that He was their long awaited Messiah. But this of course was no surprise as Isaiah 8:14 had already foretold this: “Then He shall become a sanctuary; But to both the houses of Israel, a stone to strike and a rock to stumble over, and a snare and a trap for the inhabitants of Jerusalem.” In fact early in Jesus’ infancy, Simeon the prophet in Luke 2:34-35 had already said of Him, “Behold, this Child (Jesus) is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed— and a sword will pierce even your (Mary the mother’s) own soul—to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”

These people were truly deplorable. They even considered Jesus to be demon possessed. This of course was derogatory. The very Son of God was considered to have the devil and insane. This clearly indicates to us how low a person can sink who refuses to acknowledge Christ! We can understand why we need the eye of our minds to be enlightened. We all need spiritual perception to see Christ for who He truly is. We who have the privilege to see and recognize Christ Jesus and His truth, are deeply indebted to Him for the spirit of revelation and His grace and mercy.  

What was encouraging is seen in verse 21. Among those who objected Christ, there were some who would be logical and had a measure of light. They recalled how he had healed the man who was born blind. They could see the positive side of the Savior. So they responded to the claim that Christ is demon possessed and mad by asking, “These are not the sayings of one demon-possessed. A demon cannot open the eyes of the blind, can he?” They were deeply enthralled by His word more than His miraculous works. These were the more discerning ones and could see the reality of Christ’s mission.

Aren’t we glad that God had granted us spiritual perception? Let’s continue to ask that He will open our eyes to be able to recognize Him, and that He will continue to reveal the truth to us. As sheep, let’s discern the voice of our Shepherd and be identified with Him. Let us stand firm and be distinguished as people who know Him and are known by Him. Truly, God deserves all the glory!