22-24 They were celebrating Hanukkah just then in Jerusalem. It was winter. Jesus was strolling in the Temple across Solomon’s Porch. The Jews, circling him, said, “How long are you going to keep us guessing? If you’re the Messiah, tell us straight out.”

25-30 Jesus answered, “I told you, but you don’t believe. Everything I have done has been authorized by my Father, actions that speak louder than words. You don’t believe because you’re not my sheep. My sheep recognize my voice. I know them, and they follow me. I give them real and eternal life. They are protected from the Destroyer for good. No one can steal them from out of my hand. The Father who put them under my care is so much greater than the Destroyer and Thief. No one could ever get them away from him. I and the Father are one heart and mind.”

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message: Catholic/Ecumenical Edition, Softcover
The Message: Catholic/Ecumenical Edition, Softcover
Retail: $29.95
Our Price: $2.99
Save: $26.96 (90%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message Gospel of John
The Message Gospel of John
Retail: $4.99
Our Price: $4.49
Save: $0.50 (10%)
The Message Gift and Award Bible, Softcover, Black
The Message Gift and Award Bible, Softcover, Black
Retail: $7.99
Our Price: $6.99
Save: $1.00 (13%)
2.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message Outreach Edition, Large-Print, softcover-Case of  10
The Message Outreach Edition, Large-Print, softcover-Case of 10
Retail: $99.90
Our Price: $64.90
Save: $35.00 (35%)
4.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message of Easter - eBook
The Message of Easter - eBook
Retail: $4.99
Our Price: $3.99
Save: $1.00 (20%)