The Apostle John marks the context of this passage during the Feast of Dedication, now known as Hanukkah. This was an eight day festival of lights celebrating liberation, and the freedom to worship the one true God. In a heated exchange at the temple Jesus unpacks deep truths about the Godhead, sin, and salvation. The Good Shepherd differentiates the qualities of those who are his sheep and those who are not. His own are chosen. His own will listen, follow, and believe. The sheep of the Shepherd find great consolation in knowing that the Shepherd will hold them fast, always. Jesus secures this promise to his people with the truth that he and the Father are one.