14 Because I tell you the truth, you believe me not, and you would convict me of sin. But I say the truth. Why do you not believe me?
15 He that is of God hears God's words. You, therefore, hear my words not because you are not of God."
16 Then screamed the Jews, "We say that you are a Samaritan and have a demon."
17 Jesus answered, "I have no demon, but I honor my Father, and you dishonor me. I seek not my own glory. There is one that knows and tallies.
18 Truly, truly, I say to you, if a man keeps my teachings he shall never see death."
19 Then cried the Jews, "Now we know you have a demon. Abraham is dead, the prophets have died, but you say if a man keeps my teachings he shall never taste of death.
20 Are you greater than Abraham and the prophets? Who has made you so wonderful?"
21 Jesus rebuked them. If I honor myself my honor is nothing, but my Father does me honor, and my Father is your God. Yet, you have not known Him, but I know Him. Should I say I know Him not?
22 But I know Him, and if I should say I know Him not, then I would be a liar like unto you. But I know Him, and keep His Way.
23 Your Father Abraham rejoiced to see my day, and I tell you now, He sees it that He is here among you and glad for what He sees."
24 Then said the Jews, "You are not yet fifty years old. How could you see Abraham? How would Abraham see you and be here today?"
25 Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I was."
26 Their anger became as a rage. They picked up stones to stone Him, but the stones became as fire, and they could not hold to them. He walked from among them while they cursed His words.
"THIS IS WHO I AM!"
Chapter Forty-Five
Now, as Demetrius returned to Jesus several men appeared and blocked his path, some to the front, and some to the rear. Demetrius put his hand on his sword. But one of the men cried out, "Sir, we mean you no harm. We come to ask what temple it is you're building."
2 Demetrius took his hand away from his sword. "I will speak of these things," he answered, "to one man in private, but not when there are several men at my back, and, at my front. If you will speak to me of such things let all but one of you depart."
3 The one who had spoken waved his hand and his companions scattered.
4 His single companion came closer. "Do I need to repeat my question?" he asked.
5 "I build the temple of Light and Truth," Demetrius answered, "that which is for all houses, rather they be of Heaven or earth."
6 "What house do you be of?" the man asked.
7 "I am of The House Of Heaven," Demetrius answered. "And you?"
8 "I am of The House Of David," the man answered, "but I know truly who it is that David served."
9 Demetrius nodded. "You speak well, son of David. What is it you wish of me?"
10 "There is one who wishes to speak with you. He is not of the brotherhood but in the past he has done us some services. If you would take the time it would repay some favors."
11 "Why all the secrecy?" Demetrius asked.
12 "If his people learn he has even SPOKEN with you, there could be difficulties. His caution is justified."
13 "I suppose," Demetrius sighed, "it would be no harm to speak to The High Priest, though it will probably do very little good, either. Lead the way!"
14 The man seemed startled that Demetrius knew who had sent him but led the way through the city until they came to a modest house in one of the poorer sectors. The guide opened the door, allowed Demetrius to enter, then shut it without following.
15 A pleasant-looking Jew sat on some cushions eating from a plate of dates. He motioned for Demetrius to join him. The smell of the room left Demetrius no doubt what the man had been doing while awaiting him.
16 He sat down and enjoyed some of the dates before the man finally spoke. "Why do you travel with Jesus?" he asked. "Why do you interfere in the affairs of Israel? If I were to make a complaint your superiors might not be pleased."
17 "If you were to make a complaint," Demetrius snapped, "my superiors would relieve you of your head, for your discourteousness to a Roman. Let us never speak of my superiors again. You have no true realization of who they are."
18 Ciaphas nodded. "I have been told you do not waste words. Then I ask you curteously, why do you travel with this Jesus? Why do you interfere in the business of Israel?"
19 "Why do YOU interfere in the business of God?" Demetrius answered, "Why do you hinder Him? Why don't you instead, help Him? If you were to stand with Him He could accomplish this good without blood.
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