John 6:1-21

I love the continuity of the Bible. God has been at work to redeem His people from the very beginning of the Bible. John, as well as the Apostle Paul, is a master at weaving the themes of the Old Testament into the life of Jesus and His New Covenant church. The feeding of the multitude, which is told in all four of the Gospels, is an example.

John mentions the Passover at the beginning of this passage. This is the second time he connect the Passover to something significant in Jesus’ life. (The first was when Jesus cleansed the Temple. He will mention the Passover a third time when Jesus returns to Jerusalem for the last time.) John is showing that Jesus is the Messiah and he is leading people out of slavery just as Moses led the people out of Egypt in the first exodus. There are two ways I see how the Passover connects Jesus to the exodus in today’s passage. First, in the wilderness of the first Passover exodus the people had nothing to eat and God provided manna from Heaven. Here, in the wilderness, Jesus distributes food to the people.  The second point is the water. Moses led the people through the water of the Red Sea; here Jesus walks on the water and his presence takes the disciples safely through the storm.

This passage also presents us with solid food for our devotional time. First, we all experience times when we don’t have enough of (insert your particular need.) Andrew is a good example for us in such times. Look around and gather that which you do have and give it to God. Trust God to take it from there and fulfill his promise to “supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)

Secondly, we all face times of great anxiety. The gale force winds and rough seas encountered by the disciples are a good metaphor for such times in our lives. In those times, if we will but listen, we will hear Jesus say those comforting words, 

“Don’t be afraid. I am here.”

With Jesus closely by our side we’ll pass safely through the storm.

What word or phrase in these verses

attracts your attention?

Reflect on that word or phrase.

What insights come to you?

How does this passage touch your life today?

13-Mar-12     John 6:22-59