John 8:48-59 - Jesus And Abraham
48 The Jews answered and said to Jesus, "Were we not right in saying that you are a Samaritan [See note on 4:9], and are dominated by an evil spirit?"
49 Jesus answered, "I am not dominated by an evil spirit. But I give honor to my Father and you people dishonor me. 50 I am not looking for personal honor; but there is One who is looking for it [i.e., God], and He judges people [fairly]. 51 Truly, truly, I tell you, if a person obeys my message, he will never die [i.e., spiritually]."
52 The Jews [i.e., the authorities] replied, "Now we know that you are dominated by an evil spirit. Abraham and the prophets [all] died and [yet] you are saying, 'If a person obeys my message, he will never experience death.' 53 Are you greater [i.e., more important] than our forefather Abraham and the prophets, who [all] died? Who do you think you are?"
54 Jesus answered them, "If I were to honor myself, that honor would be worthless. [But] it is my Father who honors me [and] you say He is your God. 55 Now you people have not known Him [i.e., to be your Lord], but I know Him. And if I should say, 'I do not know Him,' I would be a liar like you. But I [do] know Him, and I obey His message. 56 Your forefather Abraham was glad that he could look forward to my day [i.e., by faith he anticipated the coming of the Messiah. See Heb. 11:13ff]. And he saw it [by faith] and was glad."
57 So, the Jews said to Him, "You are not even fifty years old [yet] and have you seen Abraham?"
58 Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I tell you, before Abraham was born, I am." [Note: The words "I am" were probably construed as a reference to being Deity. See Ex. 3:14].
59 So, they picked up stones to throw at Him, but Jesus hid Himself [or "was hidden," suggesting a miraculous departure] and left the Temple [area].