13
The hired hand is concerned about what he's going to get paid and not about the sheep.
14
"I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep as the Father knows me. My sheep know me as I know the Father.
15
So I give my life for my sheep.
16
I also have other sheep that are not from this pen. I must lead them. They, too, will respond to my voice. So they will be one flock with one shepherd.
17
The Father loves me because I give my life in order to take it back again.
18
No one takes my life from me. I give my life of my own free will. I have the authority to give my life, and I have the authority to take my life back again. This is what my Father ordered me to do."
19
The Jews were divided because of what Jesus said.
20
Many of them said, "He's possessed by a demon! He's crazy! Why do you listen to him?"
21
Others said, "No one talks like this if he's possessed by a demon. Can a demon give sight to the blind?"
22
The Festival of the Dedication of the Temple took place in Jerusalem during the winter.
23
Jesus was walking on Solomon's porch in the temple courtyard.