John 10:34
Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods?
John 10:34
Jesus quotes from Psalm 82:6, where God presides over a council of earthly judges who receive God’s word but are nonetheless called “gods” in a poetic sense. By invoking this scripture, Jesus argues that if Scripture can usage-ladenly refer to human recipients as “gods” or authorities in God’s presence, then his own claim to being the Son of God is not blasphemous—if, indeed, the Father has given him a unique, divine mission. The argument operates on a common rabbinic method: interpret Scripture with Scripture and show that the term “gods” is not inherently blasphemous when proper authority and the source of the word is God. Jesus is reframing their accusation by highlighting the ambiguity of human roles under God’s word while asserting his singular relationship with the Father. The wider Johannine theme of light vs. darkness and belief vs. unbelief is at play: the truth of Jesus' identity should be discerned through the word of God.
The verse centers on the authority of Scripture and the nature of divine-sanctioned authority. Jesus is not denying the literalness of the Psalm but reframing the term “gods” to include human mediators who receive God’s word. He uses a hermeneutical move that invites readers to test Jesus against the standard of Scripture, not merely against human expectations. The passage underscores the composite doctrine of the Trinity in implicit form: he is the Son of God, sent with a delegated authority, and Scripture itself testifies to God’s governance through his messengers. This is less about reducing divinity to human status and more about showing that God’s word operates in various spheres.
We often use titles and roles to grant or deny authority. This passage invites humility and discernment: how do we recognize authentic divine authority in others and in leaders? It warns against rigidly equating “human” with “lesser” and encourages evaluating authority by alignment with God’s word and Jesus’ works. Practically, reflect on mentors, pastors, or leaders who speak truth with integrity. Do you test their claims against Scripture? Do you allow God to work through imperfect vessels? Also, consider how you view your own calling. If you are entrusted with a role by God, live in a way that bears witness to the Word who is Jesus, ensuring your authority remains under God’s authority.
Cross-References: Psalm 82:6; John 5:39-40; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Hebrews 1:2-3; 2 Peter 1:20-21