February 27 John 6:47
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life.”
This verse is part of Jesus’ discourse on the Bread of Life, in which He emphasizes faith as the means to eternal life. Several key themes emerge:
- The Certainty of Christ’s Promise Jesus begins with “Truly, truly” (Greek: Amen, amen), a phrase He often uses to emphasize the absolute truth and importance of His words. This signals that what follows is a foundational statement.
2. Faith as the Key to Eternal Life Jesus directly states that belief is what grants eternal life. This reflects the broader theme in John’s Gospel that salvation is by faith in Him (cf. John 3:16, John 5:24).
3. Present Possession of Eternal Life The verb “has” is in the present tense, indicating that eternal life is not just a future promise but something believers already begin to experience. This aligns with Jesus’ teaching that eternal life is knowing God and Christ (John 17:3).
4. Context of the Bread of Life Discourse This verse is embedded in a discussion where Jesus compares Himself to the manna given to Israel in the wilderness. While manna sustained physical life temporarily, Jesus, the true Bread of Life, grants eternal sustenance through faith.
5. Exclusive Claim of Christ By stating that belief in Him leads to eternal life, Jesus underscores that He is the exclusive way to salvation. This echoes other passages where Jesus claims to be the only means to the Father (John 14:6).
Application:
• Faith in Christ is not just intellectual assent but trust in Him as the source of life.
• Eternal life begins now for the believer, transforming the way we live.
• Jesus’ words invite a response: will we believe and partake of the Bread of Life?
This verse, in its simplicity, encapsulates the heart of the Gospel—faith in Christ brings life everlasting.
At this writing I’m watching a course about Bonhoeffer. His whole life and work was about livi g beyond mere confession. He would be with the Book of James. Faith without works is dead. He’d like Jordin Oeterson who says “I strive to live as if I believe” So it is a great question Now I believe what does Jesus want me to do!
How is this true for me and for you?
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