12
There was a lot of contentious talk about him circulating through the crowds. Some were saying, "He's a good man." But others said, "Not so. He's selling snake oil."
13
This kind of talk went on in guarded whispers because of the intimidating Jewish leaders.
14
With the Feast already half over, Jesus showed up in the Temple, teaching.
15
The Jews were impressed, but puzzled: "How does he know so much without being schooled?"
16
Jesus said, "I didn't make this up. What I teach comes from the One who sent me.
17
Anyone who wants to do his will can test this teaching and know whether it's from God or whether I'm making it up.
18
A person making things up tries to make himself look good. But someone trying to honor the one who sent him sticks to the facts and doesn't tamper with reality.
19
It was Moses, wasn't it, who gave you God's Law? But none of you are living it. So why are you trying to kill me?"
20
The crowd said, "You're crazy! Who's trying to kill you? You're demon-possessed."
21
Jesus said, "I did one miraculous thing a few months ago, and you're still standing around getting all upset, wondering what I'm up to.
22
Moses prescribed circumcision - originally it came not from Moses but from his ancestors - and so you circumcise a man, dealing with one part of his body, even if it's the Sabbath.