John 7:1-24 ▼

1 After this Jesus moved from place to place in Galilee. He would not go about in Judaea, because the Jews were seeking an opportunity to kill Him.

2 But the Jewish Festival of the Tent-Pitching was approaching.

3 So His brothers said to Him, "Leave these parts and go into Judaea, that not only we but your disciples also may witness the miracles which you perform.

4 For no one acts in secret, desiring all the while to be himself known publicly. Since you are doing these things, show yourself openly to the world."

5 For even His brothers were not believers in Him.

6 "My time," replied Jesus, "has not yet come, but for you any time is suitable.

7 It is impossible for the world to hate you; but me it does hate, because I give testimony concerning it that its conduct is evil.

8 As for you, go up to the Festival. I do not now go up to this Festival, because my time is not yet fully come."

9 Such was His answer, and He remained in Galilee.

10 When however His brothers had gone up to the Festival, then He also went up, not openly, but as it were privately.

11 Meanwhile the Jews at the Festival were looking for Him and were inquiring, "Where is he?"

12 Among the mass of the people there was much muttered debate about Him. Some said, "He is a good man." Others said, "Not so: he is imposing on the people."

13 Yet for fear of the Jews no one spoke out boldly about Him.

14 But when the Festival was already half over, Jesus went up to the Temple and commenced teaching.

15 The Jews were astonished. "How does this man know anything of books," they said, "although he has never been at any of the schools?"

16 Jesus answered their question by saying, "My teaching does not belong to me, but comes from Him who sent me.

17 If any one is willing to do His will, he shall know about the teaching, whether it is from God or originates with me.

18 The man whose teaching originates with himself aims at his own glory. He who aims at the glory of Him who sent him teaches the truth, and there is no deception in him.

19 Did not Moses give you the Law? And yet not a man of you obeys the Law. Why do you want to kill me?"

20 "You are possessed by a demon," replied the crowd; "no one wants to kill you."

21 "One deed I have done," replied Jesus, "and you are all full of wonder.

22 Consider therefore. Moses gave you the rite of circumcision (not that it began with Moses, but with your earlier forefathers)

23 If a child is circumcised even on a Sabbath day, are you bitter against me because I have restored a man to perfect health on a Sabbath day?

24 Do not form superficial judgements, but form the judgements that are just."