Commentary on John 10:20

John 10:20 states: "Many of them said, He hath a devil, and is mad; why hear ye him?"

This verse occurs within the larger context of Jesus' teaching about Himself as the Good Shepherd, which is vividly depicted in the preceding verses of John 10. The response of the people to His words reveals a crucial turning point in His ministry, offering rich insights into themes of perception, disbelief, and the nature of Christ's mission.

Contextual Overview

In the previous section of John 10, Jesus presents Himself as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing the relationship He has with His followers, and contrasting this with the false leaders of Israel. This proclamation occurs in a setting characterized by division and skepticism among the Jewish leaders and the populace.

Interpretation of Responses

The reaction of "many of them" signifies that a significant portion of the crowd is unwilling to accept Jesus' claim of divinity.

• Matthew Henry comments that the accusation of being "mad" reveals the blasphemous depths to which the human heart will sink when faced with divine truth. He notes that the genuine followers of Christ must expect such responses from those who do not see the light.
• Albert Barnes points out that the term "devil" implies that these individuals believed Jesus was under the influence of a demonic spirit, indicating the severe misunderstanding of His authority and nature. He highlights how such accusations stem from spiritual blindness and ignorance of the Scriptures.
• Adam Clarke adds that the assertion of madness is a common reaction to profound truth, especially when it shocks societal norms or expectations. He stresses the importance of recognizing such responses as evidence of the world's opposition to divine revelation.

Theological Implications

The implications of this verse extend beyond the immediate narrative into profound theological reflections:

• Divine Revelation vs. Human Understanding: Jesus, as the incarnate Word, speaks truth that often contradicts human wisdom. This theme of misinterpretation is a constant struggle in biblical history.
• The Nature of Belief: The rejection of Jesus encapsulates the broader human struggle with faith. Many are willing to adhere to familiar beliefs despite the evidence of Christ's miracles and His divine nature.
• Spiritual Warfare: The charge of being possessed by a devil intimates the reality of spiritual conflict. It serves as a reminder that proclaiming truth can provoke opposition from those under the influence of spiritual darkness.

Application for Today's Believers

For pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars, this verse serves as both a warning and encouragement:

• Expect Opposition: Like Christ, believers should not be surprised when their message faces skepticism or outright hostility. The call is to remain steadfast in truth, knowing that the Light will often confront darkness.
• Engage with Compassion: The bitter response of the crowds should stir believers to approach those who react similarly with compassion. Understanding the root of their disbelief can inform more effective outreach and evangelism.
• Strengthen in Faith: This passage encourages followers of Christ to deepen their faith in His words amidst confusion and doubt. The assurance of Christ's authority provides a foundation for navigating challenging spiritual dialogues.

Conclusion

John 10:20 encapsulates a moment of profound rejection that every follower of Christ must reckon with. The reactions to Jesus' statements serve as a reflection of humanity's tendency towards disbelief even in the face of divine authority. By examining these reactions through the lenses of various commentaries, pastors and scholars can glean both wisdom and inspiration to guide their ministries and personal walks with the Lord. In the face of rising skepticism in modern culture, the steadfast voice of the Shepherd continues to call those willing to listen and respond in faith.