46
Can any one of you convict me of a single misleading word, a single sinful act? But if I'm telling the truth, why don't you believe me?
47
Anyone on God's side listens to God's words. This is why you're not listening - because you're not on God's side."
48
The Jews then said, "That clinches it. We were right all along when we called you a Samaritan and said you were crazy - demon-possessed!"
49
Jesus said, "I'm not crazy. I simply honor my Father, while you dishonor me.
50
I am not trying to get anything for myself. God intends something gloriously grand here and is making the decisions that will bring it about.
51
I say this with absolute confidence. If you practice what I'm telling you, you'll never have to look death in the face."
52
At this point the Jews said, "Now we know you're crazy. Abraham died. The prophets died. And you show up saying, 'If you practice what I'm telling you, you'll never have to face death, not even a taste.'
53
Are you greater than Abraham, who died? And the prophets died! Who do you think you are!"
54
Jesus said, "If I turned the spotlight on myself, it wouldn't amount to anything. But my Father, the same One you say is your Father, put me here at this time and place of splendor.
55
You haven't recognized him in this. But I have. If I, in false modesty, said I didn't know what was going on, I would be as much of a liar as you are. But I do know, and I am doing what he says.
56
Abraham - your 'father' - with jubilant faith looked down the corridors of history and saw my day coming. He saw it and cheered."