Scripture: When many of his disciples heard it, they said, “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?” But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples were grumbling about this, said to them, “Do you take offense at this? Then what if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. But there are some of you who do not believe.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning who those were who did not believe, and who it was who would betray him.) And he said, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father.”
After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him. So Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you want to go away as well?” Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.” Jesus answered them, “Did I not choose you, the twelve? And yet one of you is a devil.” He spoke of Judas the son of Simon Iscariot, for he, one of the twelve, was going to betray him.
John 6:60-71 ESV [Click here to read the entire chapter.]
Observation: Recapping Yesterday’s Daily Focus, Jesus challenges the crowd that followed him to Capernaum to believe that he has come from the Father. Dubious of this bold claim, they ask for a miraculous sign. So the one who fed the masses asserts he is the bread of life, the new manna from heaven. And alluding to his forthcoming crucifixion and resurrection, Jesus boldly states that all who believe in him shall have eternal life (vv.39-40). The Jewish leaders then grumble about Jesus’ audacious claim, noting that they know his biological parents. And Jesus counters that no one can place their faith in him unless the Father wills it (v.44). Moreover, the bread he gives to bring eternal life is his flesh (v.51), referring to his soon crucifixion. Perplexed, the crowd and synagogue rulers argue about how Jesus could offer his flesh as food. Not letting up, Jesus reemphasizes that his flesh is real food and his blood is genuine drink and hints at the spiritual meaning by adding that those who consume him will abide with him.
Today’s devotion tells of the fallout of Jesus’ bold (and first) “I am” statement with its misunderstood spiritual implication that appear to promote cannibalism. Many of Jesus’ disciples (outside of the twelve) question his hard saying and part company (vv.60 and 66). Discerning that even his twelve were grumbling over his proclamation, Jesus asks if they are offended and supposes how they might respond if he ascended to where he dwelled in his eternal, spiritual form. And he adds that his words address our human spirits and bring life to them. At this point, John tells us Jesus knew who would believe in him and who would betray him. For this reason, Jesus reiterates his earlier point (see yesterday’s Daily Focus) that no one can place their faith in him unless willed by his Father.
As the large gathering of disciples walks away, Jesus asks the twelve whether they wish to leave, too. Peter rightfully responds with a rhetorical question and statement of truth: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.” (vv.68-69) And Jesus affirms that this is why he chose them, with the exclusion of the one who is a devil. Thus, John clarifies to his readers that Judas would betray Jesus.
Takeaway: Jesus’ reference to returning to his heavenly kingdom points to his resurrection and ascension. Indeed, his remaining eleven disciples would witness these signs that confirm that Jesus is the great “I am,” the manna from heaven who has returned to his Father where he reigns over creation in glory. As the author of Hebrews succinctly puts it, “He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high” (Hebrews 1:3 ESV). And Paul (Romans 8:34) and Peter (1 Peter 3:22) echo this doctrine of our faith.
Our takeaway? There will be moments when we wobble in our faith because the hard teachings of Christ seem harsh or unattainable or because we are going through challenging times that cause us to question whether the Son of God loves us. It is then that, like Peter, we must consider to whom else we would turn and follow. In whom else would we find a peace that passes understanding when the world feels out of control (Philippians 4:7) or a joy that is our strength in times of duress (Nehemiah 8:10)? And more to the point, who else speaks words that bring eternal life?
So even though we did not witness Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, his Holy Spirit attests to our hearts that Jesus is the Holy One of God. Accordingly, let’s stay focused in our mind’s eye on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith, who, for the joy of saving us, endured his crucifixion, removing sin’s shame from us, and now reigns in glory (Hebrews 12:2). And when we struggle in our faith, let’s consider who else has the words that bring abundant and everlasting life (John 10:10). Who else perfectly loves us and thus chose to die for us?
Prayer: Father God, we thank you for your Son, who did not hold back his words or life to lead us to his eternal home (John 14:2). And we thank you for your Holy Spirit, who confirms that your Son came from your heavenly realm, lived in perfect obedience to you, and died to bring us forgiveness and reconciliation. So would you please help us to focus on your Son when we struggle in our faith journeys, remembering that in him alone, we find a beautiful and flawless love and everlasting life? Amen.
Rev. Gordon Green, M.Div., M.A. Counseling