A study of John 6:48-59 reveals the difference between physical and spiritual life, that the bread Jesus gives is his flesh, and those who consume his flesh and blood abide in him.
A study of John 6:48-59 reveals the difference between physical and spiritual life.
I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. (ESV, John 6:48-50)
After his miraculous feeding of 5000 people with two loaves of bread and one fish, Jesus uses bread as the topic for a spiritual discussion with a crowd of people. He begins this passage with a statement that continues the conversation he began in V.32-35.
The Greek word that is normally used to mean physical life is bios. But the word Jesus uses for “life” here is zōē. It has a richer, fuller meaning that refers to life in fellowship with God and almost always includes eternal life.
Jesus then compares the manna God provided in the wilderness to the bread he offers. The manna sustained physical life on earth. But the people that ate it eventually died. However, the bread Jesus provides is spiritual. And it offers a higher quality of life on earth along with life in heaven. In other words, Jesus is the giver and sustainer of eternal life.
However, his audience struggled to take their eyes off the things of this world and see God’s spiritual truth. And what was hard for people then is the same today. So it’s an appropriate question: What things of this world keep you from seeing and responding to the truth of God’s word?
A study of John 6:48-59 reveals that the bread Jesus gives is his flesh.
I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. And the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh. (ESV, John 6:51)
Jesus identifies himself again as the living bread from heaven. Whoever eats this bread gains eternal life. And that bread is his flesh. So what do we make of this?
Many suggest Jesus is referring to the symbolism of the last supper. The bread represents his body and the cup his blood. And the idea can’t be dismissed. But an important distinction is the Greek word Jesus used at the last supper was soma which is “body” and here he uses the Greek word sarx, which is “flesh.” It is the same word used in John 1:14. And the word became flesh and dwelt among us.
Therefore, we may also consider consider that Jesus is speaking of himself as the incarnate son. The divine God as a human. Who sacrificed himself on the cross for our sins. Unfortunately, the people hear only what they want to hear. And respond on a physical level.
A study of John 6:48-59 reveals that those who consume Jesus’ flesh and blood abide in him.
Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. (ESV, John 6:56)
“The bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.” The people struggled to digest this statement by Jesus. (pun intended) And it causes a dispute among them. Is he literally suggesting cannibalism? Of course not! He’s speaking symbolically. In both V.35 and V.40, Jesus delivers his key message. Those who seek eternal life must believe in him.
Rather than explain his meaning, Jesus leans into the symbolic discussion and adds drinking his blood to eating his flesh. And he repeats it twice. First, in a negative voice: If you don’t eat his flesh and drink his blood you have no life. And second, in a positive voice. if you do eat his flesh and drink his blood you gain eternal life and he will raise you up on the last day.
Furthermore, if you eat his flesh and drink his blood, he will abide in you and you in him. The Greek word for “abide” is mĕnō, which means to stay in relation, continue, dwell, endure, be present, and remain. It affirms that belief Jesus goes beyond an intellectual acknowledgement. But involves a personal relationship with Jesus as Savior and Lord.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
A study of John 6:35-47 reveals the call of God and security of believers, Jesus’ obedience to God’s will, and a consistent message of belief in Jesus for eternal life.
A study of John 6:35-47 reveals the call of God and security of believers
But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out. (ESV, John 6:36-37)
A crowd of people had been following Jesus, mostly to watch him perform miracles. But he offered much more than that. And reminds them in V.35 that those who believe in him will have their spiritual hunger and thirst satisfied. Then he acknowledges in V.36 that many who saw his miraculous works, still didn’t believe in him. And it raises the question: why do some people believe in Jesus and others don’t? Especially, when everyone has the same opportunity to listen, observe, and respond to him. Jesus answers the question in V.37. People who believe are the ones the Father gives me. And he clarifies it further in V.44. No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him.
The Greek word for “draw” is helkysē, which means to drag, draw, and pull. It presents the idea of moving against resistance. God’s Spirit doesn’t just invite us to believe in Jesus. But moves us toward him.
When you hear God’s voice
This means the decision to follow Jesus is not solely on human volition. Where we intellectually consider the facts and decide on our own. It is a faith decision that extends beyond the physical realm to the spiritual realm. And involves spiritual intervention. God himself draws us to Jesus through the work of his Spirit. The Apostle Paul put it this way.
And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. (ESV, Romans 8:30)
Some people mistakenly think they can believe in Jesus at any time. Enjoy life on their own terms and decide to follow Jesus near the end of life so they can enter heaven. But scripture suggests otherwise. Therefore, if you sense the Spirit of God calling you to believe in Jesus, make an immediate decision. Don’t assume it’s an open invitation to accept at your convenience. However, when you turn to him, Jesus welcomes you with open arms.
And whoever comes to me I will never cast out. (ESV, John 6:37b)
A study of John 6:35-47 reveals Jesus’ obedience to God’s will
For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. (ESV, John 6:40)
Jesus explains the reason he came from heaven. Not to do his will, but the will of the father. And it is the father’s will that everyone who believes in Jesus receives eternal life and is resurrected on the last day.
Ironically, no one in the crowd argued against the divine source of power in Jesus’ miracles. But they suddenly questioned his claim of coming from heaven. Because they all knew he was the son of Joseph and Mary. And watched him grow up with all the other children in town. Perhaps, there were also lingering rumors and questions around the betrothed pregnancy of his mother. But conception of a virgin by the Holy Spirit was not one of them.
Did the unbelievers reject him because he didn’t offer enough miraculous proof? Maybe he was too human for them to believe he was God? Or was it simply an excuse? And what reasons do people give for rejecting Jesus today? Fortunately, God’s will does not change. He wills that we all believe in Jesus and receive eternal life. And when we follow him, Jesus secures us until the day of resurrection.
A study of John 6:35-47 reveals a consistent message of belief in Jesus for eternal life.
Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. (ESV, John 6:47)
Jesus ends the passage where he began. Telling the crowd to believe in him for eternal life. And his consistent message is proclaimed throughout the New Testament. The Greek word for “believes” is pisteuō, which means to believe, to entrust oneself, rely upon, and have faith in. It’s more than intellectual assent. But means personally trusting and relying on the one you believe in. And it is not one and done but ongoing belief.
However, the repetition didn’t drive home the message. Instead, it made the people grumble. Why? Because they didn’t believe he came down from heaven or they finally realized all his talk about bread was symbolic. It represented spiritual belief in him rather than actual bread. And meant they weren’t getting a lifelong food supply.
In V.45 Jesus’ words “And they will all be taught by God” refers to Isaiah 54:13. All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children. It supports and further elaborates on V.44. God draws people to believe in Jesus, not just through the voice of his Spirit. But also, the illuminated truth of God’s word.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
A study of John 6:16-34 covers Jesus walking on the water, the bread that satisfies spiritual hunger, and the bread of God who gives eternal life.
A study of John 6:16-34 covers Jesus walking on the water.
They saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they were frightened. (ESV, John 6:
You’re in a boat at night. In a raging storm. Wind howling. Flashes of lightning. Cracks of thunder. Massive waves tipping you side to side. And you’re rowing mightily, but going nowhere. Suddenly, a shadowy figure appears on the surface of the water. Looks human, but obscure. You’re shaking in fright. Expecting the worst and no idea what that is. Like the surrealistic scene from a sci-fi novel. Except it’s a real life event from the Bible. When Jesus appears walking on the water.
It’s also described in the gospels of Matthew and Mark. And in all three it occurs immediately after the feeding of the 5,000. But there are variations among the stories. Matthew and Mark explain that after feeding the 5,000, Jesus sends the disciples to cross over the Sea of Galilee without him while he dismissed the crowd. And then he goes alone into the hills to pray.
Mark and John say that Jesus saw the disciples struggling on the sea against the storm in the boat. Perhaps, because of a higher vantage point since the Sea of Galilee is 600 feet below sea level and Jesus was up in the hills. Matthew is the only one who tells of Peter getting out of the boat to walk on the water with Jesus. And John points out that when Jesus gets in the boat it immediately reaches land.
Three accounts with different details, but one truth. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, commands all creation.
A study of John 6:16-34 covers the bread that satisfies spiritual hunger.
Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. (ESV, John 6:26)
It frustrated Jesus. Curious people who followed him, but wouldn’t believe. Looking for another free meal. Attracted to the physical satisfactions he offered without making a comittment of faith. A god formed in their own image who conveniently fit their worldview and lifestyle. Eventually the crowd caught up with him. And in a similar manner that Jesus used a conversation around water with the Samaritan woman at the well, he now uses the recent miraculous meal to drive a spiritual discussion around bread.
Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. (ESV, John 6:27)
In other words, think beyond your physical needs to your spiritual needs. Like physical hunger, there is spiritual hunger that is only satisfied by spiritual bread. However, the people tried to divert the spiritual discussion.
What must we do, to be doing the works of God? (ESV, John 6:28)
“The works of God” is more clearly translated “works God requires.” It was then, as today, a works based belief about eternal life. If I can just do enough good things, God will deem me worthy, and I will earn my way into heaven. But it is an idea that scripture does not teach. And Jesus returned them to the spiritual truth.
Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” (ESV, John 6:29)
Good works will not save you. It is belief in Jesus that gains salvation. A commitment of faith and discipleship. And you strive for good works because you are now saved and follow Jesus. And seek to please him through righteous living,
A study of John 6:16-34 covers the bread of God who gives eternal life.
Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ (ESV, John 6:31)
Forced back into a spiritual discussion, the people recall an event from their religious history. The story in Exodus 16:1-31 where God provided manna to eat during their wilderness journey as they were led by Moses. They expected the coming of another great prophet like Moses and if Jesus was the one, they wanted further proof.
Jesus responded with two reminders. First, it was not Moses that provided the manna from heaven, but God. And second, he is much more than Moses.
My father gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world. (ESV, John 6:32b-33)
Jesus moved the topic from food to a person. The Son of God who comes from heaven in human flesh and gives life to the world.
The Greek word for “life” is zoe, which literally means life. But it means more than existence. It’s used in the New Testament to indicate the essence and quality of life. Specifically, the life that comes from God. And it’s available through Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Vibrant, abundant, and everlasting.
Finally, Jesus had their spiritual attention. Something they could really sink their teeth into. They asked Jesus to give them this bread “always.” The Greek word for “always” is pantote, which means always, at all times, and on every occasion. Finally, Jesus has their attention. Does he have ours?
Right Now Media is a good tool for group Bible studies. But sometimes, your small group should dive directly into God’s word. That’s what this four-week study does. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
A study of John 6:1-15 reveals a Jesus spiritual fan base rather than genuine followers, two responses when God tests you, and a small offering in the hands of God yields big results.
A study of John 6:1-15 reveals a Jesus spiritual fan base rather than genuine followers.
Jesus went away to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, which is the Sea of Tiberias. And a large crowd was following him… (ESV, John 6:1-2a)
The feeding of the 5,000 is the only miracle of Jesus recorded in all four Gospels. It occurred near the time of the Jewish passover. Jesus and his disciples had retreated to the east side of the Sea of Galilee. The Greek word for “mountain” is ŏrŏs, which means mountain and hill. But can also indicate hill country or high ground. In his gospel account, Mark (Mark 6:32) calls it a “desolate or solitary place.” Jesus and the disciples were sitting on the ground together as Jesus prepared for a teacher and disciples training session.
Jesus notices a crowd approaching in the distance. And John comments on why the crowd was pursuing him.
Because they saw the signs that he was doing on the sick. (ESV, John 6:2b)
In other words, they weren’t genuine followers. But fans. Not disciples seeking to grow in faith. But an audience desiring entertainment. A show. And we see a similar motivation today as well. People that attend a church worship service for its polished presentation. The compelling groove of upbeat music. A choregraphed worship team. Dazzling lights. And a positive, spiritual Ted Talk.
But Jesus also recognized something else. They were in a remote setting. And soon the eager crowd would also be hungry. Then what?
A study of John 6:1-15 reveals two responses when God tests you.
Jesus said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat? (ESV, John 6:5) There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?” (ESV, John 6:9)
So, Jesus turns to his disciple Phillip and asks where they can get food for the crowd. Why Phillip? Because Philip was from Bethsaida, a local town in the region. if anyone knew all the fine food establishments, he would. But Phillip responded with the pragmatic honesty of an empty glass. There was no food source anywhere close and even if there was two hundred denarii wouldn’t cover the cost for the crowd headed their way. An amount that equaled six months wages.
The disciple Nathan was also from Bethsaida. And his better idea was a boy willing to share his meal of five barley loaves and two small fish. Nathan admitted it was a futile suggestion. So, you wonder why he brought it up. Maybe to sound positive? Yes, it was meager and woefully inadequate. But it was at least something.
Barley loaves were the cheapest bread you could buy. And the Greek word for fish is ŏpsariŏn, which means a small fish like sardines. Likely, not fresh, but dried and salted for preservation. A poor person meal. And Phillip and Nathan offer two different ways to respond when God tests us. Throw up our hands in complete surrender. Or offer to Jesus the resources we have and trust his leading.
That one small meal was all Jesus needed to work with. And he already knew what he was going to do anyway.
A study of John 6:1-15 reveals a small offering in the hands of God yields big results.
So they gathered them up and filled twelve baskets with fragments from the five barley loaves left by those who had eaten. (ESV, John 6:13)
Meals had historical meanings for the Jews. Such as the passover meal recorded in Exodus 12. During their Egyptian captivity, the Jews were instructed to sacrifice a lamb and spread some of its blood on the front door posts so the angel of death passed over their home. Then cook and eat the lamb for their evening meal.
Another account is recorded in Exodus 16. As Israel wandered in the wilderness on their way from Egypt to the promised land. And when they complained of hunger, God delivered manna from heaven on the ground for them to gather every morning. However, there was a restriction. They were limited to gathering only enough for each day. But for this meal, Jesus had them gather the leftovers. Is there something symbolic about a collection of 12 baskets and the 12 tribes of Israel? Or simply that 12 disciples did the collecting?
It’s uncertain what went through the minds of those in the crowd. But one thing is sure. A small amount of faith placed in the hands of God yields big results. The people were aware of the miracle. And that Jesus might be the promised Messiah. But the savior they anticipated was expected to free them from Roman occupation. And they were ready to make Jesus king by force.
So, Jesus quietly slipped away into the hills by himself. Because their expectation was not his mission. Instead, he was about to become the lamb sacrificed for the sins of the world.
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This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
A study of John 5:30-47 reveals Jesus’ judgment aligns with the father, witnesses that testify to Jesus, and self-glorification leads to rejection of Jesus.
A study of John 5:30-47 reveals Jesus’ judgment aligns with the father.
I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me. (ESV, John 5:30)
These words are opposite of our human experience. And explain why parenting is so challenging. Our children frequently don’t listen to us just like we disobeyed our parents. But this does not happen between God the father and son. The son always hears and follows the will of the father. But again. This is not a heirachical relationship of father over the son. They are equal as God. Rather, it is a relationship of mutual love and complete agreement.
And why do we fail to listen and obey? Because of our sin. The very reason that Jesus came to earth. Not to condemn but to save us from it. Therefore, we are all accountable for our choice. And ultimately, the son will judge us for it. However, the son does not judge on his own. Because in his judgment, as with all things, he listens and responds to the voice of the father. He doesn’t seek to prove himself. Draw from his own wisdom. Or gain personal glory. But simply obey the father’s will.
A study of John 5:30-47 reveals the witnesses that testify to Jesus.
If I alone bear witness about myself, my testimony is not true. (ESV, John 5:31)
In Jewish law a person could not be convicted of a crime on the word of an accuser. Or even an accuser with one witness. There had to be at least two corroborating witnesses. So, Jesus points out witnesses that testify on his behalf. Not because he needs them, since he is God. But to verify his Messianic claim according to their own legal system.
Five Witnesses
John the Baptist: John was a respected prophet whose entire ministry previewed the coming of God’s annointed one. He clearly proclaimed the coming of one who was greater than him. In V.35, John is called a “shining lamp.” The Greek word for “lamp” is lychnos, which must be lit by someone else. Jesus, however, is the “light,” which is the Greek word phōs.
Works: The Greek word for “works” is ĕrgŏn, which means to work, labor, and toil as an effort or occupation. It encompasses Jesus’ miracles, teaching, and everything else related to his ministry. His works testify that Jesus was sent by the father. When Nicodemus visited Jesus, he acknowledged that his works proved that God was with him.
The father: Mark 1:11 records the baptism of Jesus and Mark 9:7 the transfiguration. And both occasions include the affirming and audible voice of God. Furthermore, John 1:32 records where the Spirit descends on Jesus like a dove. Although there’s no clear indication in this passage John is alluding to any of them. So, he may be speaking in general that all of the father’s revealing work points to Jesus.
The scriptures: Jesus pointed out the Jews diligently studied the scriptures that bore witness of him. But they still didn’t turn to him for life. And we see the same thing today. People read the Bible, but don’t believe. Why? Do they fail to see because their minds are closed? Or maybe they reject what doesn’t fit their worldview?
Moses: The Jews revered Moses who wrote the first five books of the Old Testament. And Jesus points out to them that Moses also wrote about him. So, if they don’t believe Moses about him, how will they believe what he says?
A study of John 5:30-47 reveals self-glorification leads to rejection of Jesus.
How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another and do not seek the glory that comes from the only God? (ESV, John 5:44)
Sin at its core is a self-centered heart. One that seeks its own glorification, recognition, and approval from other people. However, Jesus sought only the father’s approval. Obedience to his will. And his glory. As Christ-followers, we should have the same aspiration. But it’s an ongoing battle against our natural self-centeredness. Self-glorification. Disobedience to God. And desire for the approval of others.
It is only accomplished through the Holy Spirit’s work in our hearts. The desire for attention and recognition must be met by a humble and contrite spirit that seeks to elevate God, rather than ourselves. Desires to please God rather than others. And glorify him rather than ourselves.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that apply scriptural truth to life.
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