John 10:38

John 10:38

Jesus continues: “But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works.” Even if their belief in him is weak, they can trust the Father’s work through him. The goal is not merely to persuade by argument but to reveal that the Father is in Jesus and Jesus in the Father. The apostles and early Christians would read this as a powerful demonstration of Jesus’ unity with the Father and the legitimacy of his claims. The passage invites readers to move beyond skepticism about Jesus’ person to an openness to the Father’s activity in him. The idea of “that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him” points to a relational, experiential knowledge of God, rooted in Jesus’ life and mission.

This verse emphasizes intimate union between Father and Son as the basis for belief. It also underscores the sufficiency of Jesus’ works as a revelation of God. The phrase “the Father is in me, and I in him” expresses the essential unity of essence and mission within the Trinity as presented in Johannine language, even though explicit Trinitarian framing is implicit rather than overt in the text. Theologically, it helps believers understand how God’s revelation unfolds through Jesus’ life and deeds.

For today, this invites a trust-based response: you may doubt Jesus personally, but you can still look for God’s presence in his works. Watch for fruit: compassion that changes lives, truth spoken graciously, power to restore relationships. In your own life, seek to ensure your actions align with your beliefs; let the works you do be a tangible sign of God’s activity in you. If you’re uncertain about faith, observe how Jesus’ deeds impact people around you, and let that influence your conclusion about who God is. Practice mindful reflection: journaling about ways you see God at work in your day can strengthen belief and encourage generosity toward others.

Cross-References: John 5:36; John 14:11; 1 John 3:18; Romans 15:18-19; Colossians 1:19-20