John 6:22-51

Bread of Heaven

The people came looking for Jesus. They wanted more food. Jesus told them not to seek after food that spoils but for food that endures to eternal life. They were in. What must we do to do the work God requires? Jesus’ answer was somewhat astounding. “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” That was what God required then and it is what He requires now.

Jesus then told them about some very special food. He told them about the Bread of God! They had heard of manna in the desert. That was surely the bread of God? No. “For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” OK, it sounds a little weird but that’s what we want. Give us this Bread.

Then Jesus laid the first of His “I Am” statements on them. “I am the Bread of Life.” He was sent to us so that we might have life. He will never drive away anyone who comes to Him. (That’s a mighty thought right there.) What were they expecting Him to say? He was offering eternal life and telling them that belief in Him bring eternal life. They didn’t like it. They still don’t.

Then Jesus slipped in a powerful truth. “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day.” You did not just decide to come to Jesus. I did not just decide to come to Jesus. All who come to Jesus come because the Father has intentionally drawn them. What about those who don’t come to Him? Did the Father not draw them? We don’t know. I suspect He did and they refused but that’s not the point. The beautiful point is that He chose you.

Bon appétit.