John 8:39-59 - The Priority Of Jesus Over Abraham
39 They answered Him, "Our forefather was Abraham." Jesus replied to them, "If you were Abraham's descendants, you would do the [kinds of] deeds that Abraham did. 40 But instead, you are trying to kill me, a man who has [only] told you the truth, which I heard from God. Abraham did not do this [kind of thing]. 41 You people are doing what your father does." They said to Him, "We were not born illegitimately; the only Father we have is God."
42 Jesus replied, "If God were [truly] your Father you would love me, because I came from God to be here. For I did not come on my own authority, but God sent me. 43 Why do you people not understand what I am saying? It is because you cannot [bear to] listen to my message. 44 You belong to your father the devil, and you are [always] wanting to do what your father desires. He was a murderer from the [very] beginning [Note: This is probably a reference to Satan's influence on Adam, Eve and Cain in the Garden of Eden] and does not stand for the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he only speaks what is part of his nature, because he is a liar and the father of [all] liars. 45 But because I tell [you] the truth, you do not believe me. 46 Which one of you can prove me guilty of sinning? If I tell you the truth, why do you not believe me? 47 The person who belongs to God listens to the message from God. The reason you will not listen to it is because you do not belong to God."
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].