After Jesus challenges whether the people know God at all, they respond by accusing Jesus of being demon-possessed. They are especially offended by Jesus' claim to know Abraham, their forefather who lived almost two thousand years before. Jesus responds, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I am!” (v58). The crowd attempts to stone Jesus for making such a divine claim. They hear a threat in Jesus' divine claim but it is the reason Jesus can promise what he does, "anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!” (v51).

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For Reflection:

- What do you learn about Jesus in this passage? What questions does it raise for you?

- Why was Jesus’ statement “Before Abraham was, I am” so shocking to his listeners?

- Jesus' claim to be eternal and divine created anger and condemnation in them. What reaction does it create in you, and why?

- Prayer: Jesus, thank you for revealing who you truly are, and that you have the power to deliver on the promise of eternal life that you extended to them, and to us.