regarding Jesus (see 12:37–41 with reference to Isa. 53:1 and 6:10; cf. John 5:18; 8:59; 10:31–33). Clearly, John stakes his entire purpose for writing on the demonstration that Jesus’ deity is the central question on which all must render a verdict. It is impossible not to recall C. S. Lewis’s inimitable and highly poignant argument at this point: I am trying here to prevent anyone saying the really foolish thing that people often say about Him: I’m ready to accept Jesus as a great moral teacher,