Daily Devotion

In John’s gospel, there are seven “I am” statements. We have discussed Jesus’ declaration “I am the bread of life” (John 6:35). Later in the account, Jesus will proclaim that he is the “gate for the sheep” (John 10:7 NIV), the “good shepherd” (John 10:11), the “resurrection and the life” (John 11:25), the “way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6), and “the true vine” (John 15:1). In today’s passage, Jesus states, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12). The “light” exposes our sin, reveals the way to God, and shows us the right path to follow. 

Today’s account highlights the different opinions about Jesus’ ministry. That’s not surprising since Jesus really is the dividing line. Let’s examine this passage, which begins with a confrontation. 

Today, we will examine John 6:22-71. I will give commentary on the story and then explore several key truths that emerge from this passage. 

WEEKEND RECHARGE!
God’s Story in Our Savior

WEEKEND RECHARGE!
God’s Story in Our Savior

The Sea of Galilee, also called the Sea of Tiberias, is the lowest freshwater lake on Earth. It measures thirteen miles from north to south and eight miles from east to west at its widest point. The sea is a landmark for many events in Jesus’ life and ministry. It is the location for today’s passage in John 6. 

Early in his ministry, the religious leaders challenged Jesus, and they seemingly had many reasons to do so. The law of Moses required the Sabbath to be kept holy, and the religious leaders had set strict rules about what could and couldn't be done. One major issue they had with Jesus was that he healed on the Sabbath (John 5:1-17; Mk. 3:1-6; Lk. 13:10-17; Lk. 14:1-6). The recent healing of the man at the pool of Bethesda was problematic for them. But there was an even more troubling issue — this statement: “But Jesus answered them, 'My Father is working until now, and I am working’” (John 5:17). 

After spending two days in Samaria, Jesus traveled north to Galilee. The text notes that Jesus said a prophet is never honored in his hometown (John 4:44), so he stayed away from Nazareth and was welcomed by the Galileans who had seen his miracles in Jerusalem during Passover (John 4:45). Jesus also visited Cana, where he had performed his first miracle by turning water into wine. 

She was no longer young or beautiful. Worn down by life, she looked many years older than her actual age. Her life had been marked by rejection after rejection. She had been with many men, staying until they grew tired of her and threw her out onto the street.