No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father — Jesus emphasizes the voluntary nature of His death (no one takes His life by force) and His inherent authority (exousia) to give and take life. Though He lays down His life by His own choice, He does so in obedience to the Father's command (entolē), establishing perfect alignment between the Father's will and the Son's willing submission. This reconciles divine election with human agency in Christ's passion.

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