8
You go ahead, go up to the Feast. Don't wait for me. I'm not ready. It's not the right time for me."
9
He said this and stayed on in Galilee.
10
But later, after his family had gone up to the Feast, he also went. But he kept out of the way, careful not to draw attention to himself.
11
The Jews were already out looking for him, asking around, "Where is that man?"
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.