Scripture Reading: John 6

Introduction:

I. In the spring of A.D. 29, near the time of the Jewish Passover, Jesus is being followed by a multitude of people. (John 6:2)

II. His popularity with the people is very high but that is soon going to drastically change. (John 6:66)

III. What has happened, in just one day, to cause so many people to turn away from Jesus?

Discussion:

I. Jesus told them what they needed to hear. (6:26-40)

A. They were following for physical reasons. (vs. 26)

B. There is a labor that is involved but it is to be directed toward things eternal. (vs. 27)

1. This work or labor has been determined by God. (vs. 29)

2. The folks are not getting what Jesus is saying, but still looking for the physical. (vs. 30-31)

C. Jesus makes it clear that He is the bread of life and by coming to Him is the way to eternal life. (vs. 32-40)

II. Jesus stood firm against His enemies. (vs. 41-59)

A. Complaints are made about His claim. (vs. 41-42)

B. Jesus instructs them to stop complaining and look at the scripture. (vs. 43-51)

1. You can’t come to Christ unless the Father draws you and He does that by teaching. (vs. 44-45)

C. Even with their complaints He says again, “I am the bread of life.” (vs. 48)

D. His enemies continue to quarrel and Jesus doubles down on the necessity of eating the bread of life. (vs. 52-59)

III. Jesus explained the nature of His words. (vs. 60-65)

A. He realized the difficulty they were having. (vs. 60-62)

B. The Spirit gives life; the flesh profits nothing. (vs.63)

Conclusion:

What happened on that day is that the people heard the truth and it was not what they wanted. Today He is telling us what we need to hear and do. He will not change one thing because someone challenges His word. His main concern is stated in John 6:40. God wants us to have everlasting life and Jesus truly is the bread of life!