John 10:19

Translations

Modern

Again there was division among the Jews because of Jesus’ message.

Traditional

There was a division therefore again among the Jews for these sayings.

Literal

Again there was division among the Jews because of these words.

Latin

Dissensio iterum facta est inter Judæos propter sermones hos.

Interlinear

Greek

English

Again there was division among the Jews because of Jesus’ message.

Notes

John 10:19–21

Jesus divided his audience yet again (see also 6:66–69; 7:43; 9:16). His words and actions led people to one of two responses: opposition or faith.
He is demon-possessed: Compare 7:20; 8:48–49, 52.

John 10:1–21

This illustration of a shepherd and his sheep comes from a Middle Eastern perspective of shepherding and Old Testament traditions in first-century AD Jewish culture. God was the shepherd of Israel (Genesis 49:24; Psalms 23; 78:52–53; Isaiah 40:10–11).

Spiritual and political leaders of Israel were also shepherds of God’s people, the flock of God (Isaiah 56:9–12; Jeremiah 23:1–4; Ezekiel 34).

Jesus spoke these words during the Feast of Dedication (see John 10:22). At that time, people remembered both faithful and unfaithful leaders in Israel’s history.

In this setting, Jesus addressed the theme of shepherds. He spoke in a way that echoes Ezekiel 34, where God condemns bad shepherds and promises to care for his people himself. Jesus then identified himself as the good shepherd (John 10:11–14).

John 10:1–42

Chapter 10 continues the series of feast sermons (see study note on 5:1–10:42). Here, the setting is the Feast of Dedication. The timing of this feast is important for understanding the story (see study note on 10:22).

Theme notes and profiles

The Shepherd

Events

The Good Shepherd Teachingc. AD 29

Related verses

John 9:16
Because of this, some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for He does not keep the Sabbath.” But others said, “How can a sinful man perform such signs?” And there was division among them.
1 Corinthians 3:3
…for you are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and dissension among you, are you not worldly? Are you not walking in the way of man?
John 7:40–43
On hearing these words, some of the people said, “This is truly the Prophet.”
Acts 14:4
The people of the city were divided. Some sided with the Jews, and others with the apostles.
Acts 23:7–10
As soon as he had said this, a dispute broke out between the Pharisees and Sadducees, and the assembly was divided.
Matthew 10:34–35
Do not assume that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.
Luke 12:51–53
Do you think that I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I tell you, but division.
1 Corinthians 11:18
First of all, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you, and in part I believe it.

Parallels

Psalm 23:1–6 Ezekiel 34:11–24

People

Judah: Israelite tribe, kingdom, and province

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Ezekiel, Book of John, Gospel of Sheep Shepherd

Topics

Jesus, the Christ: Teaches People (In Jerusalem) Sheep of the People of Christ Strife: Jews, Concerning Jesus

John 10:19

Translations?

Interlinear?

Notes?

Events?

Related verses?

Parallels?