New Testament
John 10:26
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But you do not believe because you are not among my sheep, as I told you.
Compare translations
But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you.
What John 10:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is addressing a group of people who are skeptical about His identity and teachings. He explains that their lack of belief stems from the fact that they do not belong to His flock, or His followers. The metaphor of sheep and shepherd is significant; it illustrates the relationship between Jesus and His followers, where He knows them personally, and they recognize His voice. The implication is that true believers are those who have a genuine connection with Him, which enables them to trust and follow Him. This verse emphasizes the idea that faith is not merely an intellectual agreement but involves a deeper relationship with Jesus. Those who do not believe are likened to sheep that do not recognize their shepherd, highlighting the importance of being part of His community to truly understand and accept His message.
How to apply John 10:26 to your life
To strengthen your faith, seek a deeper relationship with Jesus through prayer, study, and community. Reflect on whether you truly recognize His voice in your life and how you can grow closer to Him and His teachings.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Mary, Jesus' mother
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about John 10:26
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying John 10:26
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 10:26 mean about belief and being Jesus' sheep?
In John 10:26, Jesus explains that those who do not believe in Him are not part of His flock. This metaphor highlights the intimate relationship between Jesus and His followers. True believers recognize His voice and trust Him, while skeptics lack this connection. The verse emphasizes that faith is rooted in a personal relationship with Jesus, rather than just intellectual agreement.
How can I know if I am one of Jesus' sheep?
To determine if you are one of Jesus' sheep, reflect on your relationship with Him. Do you recognize His voice in your life? Are you following His teachings and seeking to grow closer to Him through prayer, scripture study, and community? Genuine faith involves a personal connection with Jesus, where you trust Him and strive to live according to His guidance.
What does the metaphor of sheep and shepherd signify in this verse?
The metaphor of sheep and shepherd in John 10:26 signifies the close relationship between Jesus and His followers. Just as a shepherd knows his sheep and they recognize his voice, Jesus knows His believers personally. This relationship is foundational to faith, illustrating that true belief involves understanding, trust, and following Jesus, rather than mere acknowledgment of His existence.
How can I strengthen my faith based on John 10:26?
To strengthen your faith as suggested in John 10:26, focus on deepening your relationship with Jesus. Engage in regular prayer, study the Bible to understand His teachings, and participate in a community of believers. Reflect on how you can better recognize His voice in your life and take steps to follow His guidance more closely.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.