In Jesus' final public teaching in the Gospel of John (10:22-42), the people of Jerusalem tried to pin him down. They wanted him to declare openly who he was. In keeping with his indirect public style, Jesus pointed them to his words and works. He also boldly declared, "I and the Father are one." This statement sent them looking for rocks to stone him, since they thought he was a man who made himself out to be God. They grasped that he claimed identity with God, but they got things exactly backwards. (sermon notes)
After relating terrible events that must happen before Christ’s coming, this text leaves believers with a simple message – Stand Firm!
During a time of peace, God built up his church through the preaching of his word and powerful signs.
The construction of the tabernacle foreshadowed greater dwellings of God, which he keeps building by plundering the nations.
