“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” – John 10:27

Now it was the Feast of Dedication in Jerusalem, and it was winter. And Jesus walked in the temple, in Solomon’s porch. Then the Jews surrounded Him and said to Him, “How long do You keep us in doubt? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.”

In response, Jesus highlighted the cause of their inability to make Him out as the Messiah. He points out that due to disobedience, they lack the discerning spirit to hear God and so they will not be able to make out the Messiah even though He stood right in front of them.

Jesus goes on to liken the relationship He has with His disciples to that of a shepherd and sheep. He wanted to teach them about the special relationship they have with Him as His followers, at the same time He was highlighting the fundamental standard for fellowship with Him – complete obedience. Sheeps do not disobey their shepherds, they rely on them for guidance and are completely obedient animals. The Jews who were questioning Him did not have the humility of sheeps, so they were blinded by ignorance.

Let’s go before God today with a humble heart, seeking His guidance and strength. Let’s ask Him help me to have complete obedience to His will and His word. Like Sheeps, may we not be rebellious and may we rely on Him always for guidance. In Jesus name, Amen.