Once A Sheep, Always A Sheep

John 10:22-42

Our identity as sheep changes everything.

The Jews corner Jesus about His identity. (22-24)

Jesus explains the Jews don’t need more information, they need inspiration. (25-30)

Jesus insists the Jews are missing the point. (31-42)

So what? Before anything else, you are a sheep.

Once a sheep, always a sheep.

1. Read verses 22-24. What was the setting of this interaction with Jesus? What is the feel or mood of this interaction?

2. Read verses 25-30. How would you summarize Jesus initial response? What reason did Jesus give for these Jews not believing in him? What do you learn about being one of Jesus’ sheep in verses 27-28? Why are these verses important for us as Christians? What do you learn about God the Father and Jesus’ relationship to him in verses 29-30?

3. Read verses 31-38. How did the Jews react to Jesus in verses 31-33? What is Jesus response and argument in verses 34-36? Take a few moments to see if you can figure out his argument. Psalm 82:1-6 can add some insight for what Jesus means by “gods”. What is the point of Jesus concluding statement in verses 37-38?

4. Read verses 39-42. How would you describe what happened after this confrontation with Jesus? We have seen six signs up to this point in John: Water turned to wine (Ch.2), healing of the officials son (Ch. 4), healing of the paralytic (Ch. 5), feeding of the multitude (Ch. 6), walking on water (Ch. 6), healing of the blind man (Ch. 9). Which of these signs that Jesus performed most encourages you in your faith in Jesus? Why?

5. So what? What have you learned or been reminded about the security of your relationship God in these verses? Why does this knowledge matter as you walk with God through the regular things of life? What difference does it really make in your life?