“My sheep hear My voice.” ~ reflex on Jn 10:22-30

Jesus “walked about in the Temple area on the Portico of Solomon”, a specific place in a specific time, with a specific meaning and purpose.

The Temple was, according to ancient tradition, built on Mount Moriah, where Abraham was led to sacrifice his son, Isaac (Genesis 22:2), on the site of the threshing floor bought by King David (2 Kings 24), and where he erected an altar to the Lord. The first Temple was built by King Solomon, and a later iteration by Herod. This Portico was named after Solomon because it was likely built against the same eastern wall Solomon constructed as part of that original Temple; this east boundary of the Temple complex never changed. To the west was the Court of the Gentiles and the Temple itself. To the south was the Royal Porch of Herod, where Jesus sat among the doctors when he was 12 years old (Luke 2:46). To the east was the city wall and the Kidron Valley.

The Portico of Solomon was a grand covered walkway with massive columns, a very significant gathering place for theological discourse and debate. It was here, where great discussions took place, that Jesus taught, visited with people, and shared the Truth. After Pentecost, Peter and John would preach to a large crowd here, and heal the lame man (Acts 3:11-12). It became a gathering place for the early believers (Acts 5:12).

It was here, in a space rich with history and significance, that today’s Gospel takes place. It was Hanukkah. It was cold. And Jesus “walked about.” He was not taking a solitary afternoon stroll; as we’ve seen, this was a place where people gathered and serious debates took place. The Jews gathered around him to demand an answer to their most pressing issue: “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” So Jesus told them, plainly: “I told you and you do not believe.”

Then he took it a step further and called them out, saying they are not among his sheep. Speaking even more plainly, He called God his Father, saying, “The Father and I are one.”

If we read a little further, we will see that they threatened to stone him to death, the penalty for blasphemy, because he claimed equality with God! He told them plainly, and they refused to accept his answer and tried to eliminate him. As Jesus said, they do not believe because they are not among his sheep.

Who are his sheep? Those who believe in him and hear his voice, the voice of Truth. “I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life… No one can take them out of my hand.” What consoling words for those who follow the words of the Good Shepherd, and allow him to lead! If we continue to listen for his voice, no one can take us away from the One who has laid down his life for the sheep!