Jesus Makes Claims About Himself
48 The Jews answered Jesus, "Aren't we right when we say you are a Samaritan? Aren't you controlled by a demon?"
49
"I am not controlled by a demon," said Jesus. "I honor my Father. You do not honor me.
50
I am not seeking glory for myself. But there is One who brings glory to me. He is the judge.
51
What I'm about to tell you is true. Anyone who obeys my word will never die."
52
Then the Jews cried out, "Now we know you are controlled by a demon! Abraham died. So did the prophets. But you say that anyone who obeys your word will never die.
53
Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died. So did the prophets. Who do you think you are?"
54
Jesus replied, "If I bring glory to myself, my glory means nothing. You claim that my Father is your God. He is the one who brings glory to me.
55
You do not know him. But I know him. If I said I did not, I would be a liar like you. But I do know him. And I obey his word.
56
"Your father Abraham was filled with joy at the thought of seeing my day. He saw it and was glad."
57
"You are not even 50 years old," the Jews said to Jesus. "And you have seen Abraham?"
58
"What I'm about to tell you is true," Jesus answered. "Before Abraham was born, I am!"
59
When he said this, they picked up stones to kill him. But Jesus hid himself. He slipped away from the temple area.