The event known as "The Jews Attempt to Stone Jesus" is a significant moment in the New Testament, illustrating the growing tension between Jesus and the Jewish religious leaders of His time. This incident is recorded in the Gospel of John, specifically in John 10:22-39, during the Feast of Dedication, also known as Hanukkah, in Jerusalem.

Context and Setting

The Feast of Dedication commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the Maccabean Revolt. It is during this festival that Jesus is found walking in Solomon's Colonnade, a covered area of the Temple complex. The setting is significant as it underscores the religious and cultural backdrop against which Jesus' teachings and actions are scrutinized by the Jewish leaders.

The Confrontation

In John 10:24, the Jews gather around Jesus and demand, "How long will You keep us in suspense? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly." This question reflects their growing impatience and skepticism regarding Jesus' identity and mission. Jesus responds by pointing to His works as evidence of His divine authority, saying in John 10:25, "I did tell you, but you do not believe. The works I do in My Father’s name testify on My behalf."

The Claim of Divinity

The tension escalates when Jesus makes a profound declaration about His relationship with the Father. In John 10:30, He states, "I and the Father are one." This assertion of unity with God is perceived by the Jewish leaders as blasphemous, as it implies equality with God, a claim that, according to Jewish law, warranted the death penalty by stoning.

The Attempt to Stone Jesus

In response to Jesus' claim, John 10:31 records, "At this, the Jews again picked up stones to stone Him." The act of picking up stones signifies their intent to execute Jesus for what they perceive as blasphemy. However, Jesus challenges their understanding and interpretation of the Scriptures. He cites Psalm 82:6, saying in John 10:34-36, "Is it not written in your Law: 'I have said you are gods'? If he called them gods to whom the word of God came—and the Scripture cannot be broken—then what about the One whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world?"

Jesus' Defense and Escape

Jesus' defense is both a theological and rhetorical strategy, highlighting the inconsistency in their application of the Law. He emphasizes that His works, which align with the Father's will, testify to His divine mission. Despite His reasoning, the Jewish leaders remain unconvinced and attempt to seize Him. However, as John 10:39 notes, "He escaped their grasp."

Significance

This event is pivotal in the Gospel narrative as it underscores the growing hostility Jesus faced from the religious authorities. It also highlights the central theme of Jesus' divine identity and mission, which is a cornerstone of Christian belief. The incident foreshadows the eventual crucifixion, where the religious leaders' opposition culminates in their demand for Jesus' death.