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John 18:8
ESV Jesus answered, "I told you that I am he. So, if you seek me, let these men go."
NIV Jesus answered, "I told you that I am he. If you are looking for me, then let these men go."
NASB Jesus answered, 'I told you that I am He; so if you are seeking Me, let these men go on their way.'
CSB "I told you I am he," Jesus replied. "So if you’re looking for me, let these men go."
NLT I told you that I AM he,' Jesus said. 'And since I am the one you want, let these others go.'
KJV Jesus answered, I have told you that I am he: if therefore ye seek me, let these go their way:
NKJV Jesus answered, “I have told you that I am He. Therefore, if you seek Me, let these go their way,”

What does John 18:8 mean?

This statement is not merely a suggestion. When Judas arrived with heavily-armed men (John 18:2–3), Jesus took initiative and asked who they had come for (John 18:4). He then identified Himself as their target, but in a display of power so overwhelming that it literally knocked the arresting men off their feet (John 18:5–6). Repeating the question (John 18:7) after such a spectacle makes it clear that Jesus intends these men to deal with Him, not the disciples.

Jesus is implying He will cooperate with the soldiers' arrest (Philippians 2:8) but will not allow them to arrest His followers. This fulfills part of the High Priestly Prayer, where Jesus mentioned His commitment not to lose any of His people (John 17:12) In a way, it also parallels the concept of the Gospel. Despite His absolute power, God chooses to place Himself between His followers and danger, taking a punishment they deserve (John 3:16).
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What is the Gospel?
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