John 10:25

Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness of me.

John 10:25 (KJV)

Context

Jesus speaks these words in direct response to the Jewish leaders who demand that He tell them plainly whether He is the Christ (John 10:24). They have heard His earlier claims—that He is the light of the world, that God is His Father, and that He is the good shepherd—yet they refuse to accept His testimony. His answer reminds them that He has already spoken clearly, and His works confirm what His words declare.

Meaning

When Jesus says, “I told you, and ye believed not,” He points to the persistent unbelief of His hearers. He had revealed the truth, but they would not receive it. Then He directs them to “the works that I do in my Father’s name.” These works—healing the sick, casting out demons, and other miracles—were not done by His own authority but in the Father’s name and by the Father’s power. They serve as visible evidence of His divine mission and identity, testifying that He is indeed the Son of God and the promised Messiah.

The Greek verb translated “bear witness” (μαρτυρεῖ) indicates that the works themselves give testimony. They are not mere displays of power; they are credentials that confirm His claims. Jesus’ miracles reveal His unity with the Father and affirm that His words are true.

Biblical connections

This theme continues in the surrounding passage. In John 10:26, Jesus explains their unbelief: “But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep.” In John 10:32, He asks, “Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?” And in John 10:37–38, He urges them: “If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not. But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him.” These verses show that the works are the Father’s works done through the Son, bearing witness to their unity.

Application

This verse calls us to recognise and respond to God’s revelation. Jesus’ miracles were not random acts of power but purposeful signs pointing to His identity. In our own lives, we are invited to see God’s hand at work and to respond in faith. Faith is not merely intellectual agreement; it requires a receptive heart that accepts the evidence God gives and trusts in His Son.

Reflection

Jesus’ words challenge us to examine our own response to His testimony. Do we believe His words and His works, or do we, like the Jewish leaders, remain sceptical despite the evidence? The works of Jesus still bear witness today through the testimony of Scripture and the transforming power of the gospel. May we have hearts that are open to receive what God has revealed and to follow Him in trusting obedience.