“I Told You, But You Do Not Believe”
John 10:22–42
“Jesus answered them, ‘I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in My Father’s name, they bear witness of Me.’”
— John 10:25 (NKJV)
🔍 Looking for a Statement, Ignoring the Signs
The setting was the Feast of Dedication—a sacred time to remember how the temple had been reclaimed and rededicated. How fitting that in this very moment, Jesus—the true and living Temple—stood in their midst.
“How long do You keep us in doubt? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly!” (v.24)
At first glance, it may sound like a sincere question. But dig deeper, and you’ll see something else: spiritual defiance masked as curiosity.
They didn’t want a Messiah sent by God—they wanted a Messiah they could manage. One who would overthrow Rome, not one who would overturn their hearts.
✝️ “I Told You… And You Do Not Believe”
Jesus wasn’t hiding His identity. He already told them—not just in words, but in works:
Healing the blind
Restoring the lame
Speaking with authority
Living in fulfillment of prophecy
“The works that I do in My Father’s name, they bear witness of Me.” (v.25)
But they didn’t believe—not because of lack of proof, but because of lack of spiritual hunger.
They didn’t want Jesus—they wanted control.
🐑 “My Sheep Hear My Voice”
“But you do not believe, because you are not of My sheep.” (v.26)
That verse hits hard. It’s not about exposure—it’s about relationship.
The sheep hear the Shepherd’s voice. They recognize His tone, His truth, His presence. But those who are bound in pride, performance, and power? They can’t hear it. They don’t want to hear it.
Faith doesn’t come from pressure—it comes from spiritual recognition.
💔 The Accusation That Sparked Stones
“I and My Father are one.” (v.30)
Now the gloves come off. Not only is Jesus performing miracles, not only is He declaring Himself the voice the sheep follow, but now He makes a direct claim of unity with God.
And what did the religious leaders do?
They picked up stones.
“For a good work we do not stone You, but for blasphemy, and because You, being a Man, make Yourself God.” (v.33)
Even in the face of irrefutable goodness… they were enraged. The problem wasn’t a lack of clarity—it was a hardness of heart.
🪨 Hardened Hearts vs. Softened Faith
The question is not just historical—it’s personal.
How often do we ask God for a “clear sign” while ignoring the ones He already gave us?
How many times do we cry out for a word but reject the Word made flesh?
How often do we want Jesus to be our Savior, but on our terms?
🧠 Reflect & Respond
Have I ever asked for clarity when the truth was already revealed?
Do I struggle with accepting Jesus as He is, not as I want Him to be?
Are there areas in my heart where belief is delayed because it’s uncomfortable?
🙏 A Prayer for Today:
Lord Jesus, You have already shown who You are. Forgive me for the times I sought proof instead of simply believing Your voice and Your works. Soften my heart, and help me trust what You’ve revealed—even when it challenges me. I believe. Help my unbelief. In Jesus name, Amen.