Devotional: Crowds Followed Jesus John 6

“A large crowd followed Him, because they saw the signs which He was performing on those who were sick” (Jn. 6:2, NASB).

John 6 is one of many good examples from the gospels that show us how Jesus ministered to people. It shows us that Jesus never turned away anyone regardless to their station in life. Jesus’ ministry to people stands in stark contrast to that of the Pharisees, Sadducees, scribes, and other religious leaders of the Jews. While the religious leaders find fault in people and use their shortcomings as reason to exclude them, Jesus is open to their being in His presence. Instead of concentrating on what is wrong with the people, Jesus takes the time to teach the people about the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God offers a person healing, food, and water which are necessary to sustain life. We can say that Jesus cared about a person’s life.

Jesus does not discriminate. All people are God’s people by creation. The church is to do what it can to keep people alive. As we read through John 6 we discover that Jesus first feeds the people physical food. Then, Jesus invites the people to look for spiritual food. Jesus is spiritual food. “Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst” (6:35, NASB). Most of the people in the crowd stop following Jesus because of His teaching. Jesus is not offended. He accepts that most people do not believe in Him. He holds to the righteous standards of God, because only those that believe have eternal life (6:66-71)

I am called to live a holy life which includes seeking justice for all of God’s people, both saved and unsaved.

Prayer: Father, I thank you for being a righteous God that calls us to be holy and righteous. Amen.