NT Fire Starters – Day 134: John 6:60-71
READ: John 6:60-71
THINK: Certainly, Jesus followers are to live by His example, being kind and gracious to people in an effort to reflect Jesus’ character and influence others to follow Him. But Christians must also realize that God’s Word and way of life will always be offensive to people. That doesn’t mean that Jesus’ followers set out to oppose people, but even when Christians do everything right in their conduct toward others, they’ll still face resistance and rejection. Jesus’ followers must understand that as they live by God’s standards, their lives will stand in sharp contrast to those who choose to defy God and go their own way. This should not surprise of offend anyone who lives to honor Jesus.
RESPOND: What statements from Jesus seemed too hard and offensive to some of His followers? What does Jesus mean when He says, “The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing”? How does this relate to Jesus previous statements in verse 53-59? According to this passage, what feeds you and gives life spiritually (v. 63)? What might Jesus have meant about knowing from the beginning who would betray Him, and how would this relate to Judas’ choices and actions concerning Jesus? (See 6:64 note.) Why did many who had previously followed Jesus turn back and no longer follow Him from this point on (v. 66)? How does Peter’s response in verse 68 serve as an example to all who desire to follow Jesus?
PRAY: Ask Jesus to give you the strength, determination and dependence on Him that will keep you loyal to Him no matter how difficult things may get.
ACT: Continue the exercise from yesterday by keeping your Bible with you and feeding on it during your free time. If you are reading in the Proverbs, you may be able to get through a good portion of the book in a couple days. Also, perhaps you’ve struggled with your attitude toward something in God’s Word that has offended you or been tough to accept. Ask God to forgive you and to help you meet the challenge and be obedient so you can grow deeper in your relationship with Him and in your understanding of God’s Word.