John 10:21 – “But others said, ‘These are not the sayings of a man possessed by a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?'”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, we see two different responses to Jesus’ teachings. Some people had already dismissed Him, saying He was demon-possessed and insane (John 10:20). But others defended Him, pointing out that His words and actions did not match those of a demon-possessed man.
These people were thinking logically. They recognized that:
- Jesus’ teachings were wise, not the ramblings of a madman. His words were full of truth, authority, and love.
- Jesus’ miracles proved His power. No demon had ever restored sight to the blind.
This verse highlights an important truth: Jesus’ life and miracles were undeniable evidence that He was from God. Some people still refused to believe, but others saw the signs and could not ignore them.
Even today, people respond to Jesus in different ways—some reject Him outright, while others recognize the power and truth of His words.
Historical Context
Jesus had just finished teaching about being the Good Shepherd (John 10:1-18). Many people were divided over His words. The religious leaders were angry because Jesus was making bold claims about Himself. They wanted to dismiss Him, so they accused Him of being insane or demon-possessed.
But others in the crowd were more open-minded. They had seen Jesus perform miracles, including healing a man who had been born blind (John 9:1-7). This was something no one had ever done before.
Jewish tradition recognized that demons could cause harm, but nowhere in their writings did demons heal people or restore sight. This was why some in the crowd defended Jesus—His miracles were proof that He was working with God’s power, not the devil’s.
Theological Implications
- Jesus’ words and actions prove His identity – He was not just a good teacher; His miracles confirmed His divine authority.
- Miracles point people to faith – Some people in the crowd were open to believing in Jesus because they saw His power at work.
- Truth always divides people – Some people will reject Jesus no matter what, but others will recognize the truth and respond.
- Faith requires an open heart – Those who dismissed Jesus refused to see the evidence, while others were willing to consider what His miracles meant.
Literary Analysis
This verse is a contrast to the previous one (John 10:20), where some people accused Jesus of being demon-possessed. Now, others speak up in His defense.
- “These are not the sayings of a man possessed by a demon.” – This statement recognizes that Jesus’ words were full of wisdom and truth, not the wild speech of a madman.
- “Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?” – This is a rhetorical question that highlights Jesus’ miraculous power. It implies that Jesus’ miracles must come from God.
This verse uses logic and evidence to argue in favor of Jesus. It shows that His miracles were meant to confirm His teachings.
Biblical Cross-References
- John 9:6-7 – Jesus heals the man born blind, proving His divine power.
- Isaiah 42:7 – A prophecy that the Messiah would “open eyes that are blind.”
- Luke 7:22 – Jesus tells John the Baptist’s disciples that His miracles prove He is the Messiah.
- Matthew 12:22-28 – Jesus refutes the Pharisees when they accuse Him of casting out demons by Satan’s power.
- John 20:30-31 – The Gospel of John records Jesus’ miracles so that people may believe in Him.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that Jesus’ power is undeniable. People in His time were confronted with the evidence of His miracles, just as we are confronted with the truth of His resurrection and the power of His teachings today.
For Christians, this verse is a call to:
- Defend the truth – Just as some in the crowd spoke up for Jesus, we should be ready to explain why we believe (1 Peter 3:15).
- Recognize the power of Jesus – His miracles were not just ancient stories—they were real signs of His identity as the Son of God.
- Understand that people respond differently – Some will reject Jesus no matter what, while others will be drawn to the truth.
- Trust in Jesus’ power today – He is still at work, changing lives and proving His authority through His Word and Spirit.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God does not leave people without evidence of who He is. He sent Jesus not only to teach, but to show His power through miracles. His love is revealed in action—by healing the sick, giving sight to the blind, and ultimately laying down His life for the world.
This verse also shows that God is patient with people. Even though some rejected Jesus, others were still questioning, still considering, still seeking the truth. God does not force belief—He allows people to see, think, and decide.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), but He is also the Light of the World (John 8:12). In John 9, He gave sight to the blind man, showing both His compassion and His divine power.
This miracle was proof that Jesus was not just another teacher—He was the fulfillment of prophecy. The Old Testament predicted that the Messiah would heal the blind (Isaiah 35:5). This means that Jesus was not just a man claiming to be God—He proved it through His works.
By questioning the accusations against Jesus, the people in John 10:21 were beginning to recognize the truth. This is how faith often begins—by looking at the evidence and realizing that Jesus is who He says He is.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think some people in the crowd defended Jesus while others rejected Him?
- How do Jesus’ miracles strengthen your faith in Him?
- Have you ever faced people who dismissed Jesus’ teachings? How did you respond?
- Why do you think some people refuse to believe in Jesus despite clear evidence of His power and authority?
- How can you share the truth of Jesus with others who may be skeptical?