May 10
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After the story of Jesus walking on the water, as well as the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000, this story is now a depiction of how Jesus is the one behind these stories that is the true substance and importance. In the first story we read of how many people were searching for Jesus. Then in the following story, we are reminded of the multiplying of the bread in the previous story and are shown that the point of all this is that Jesus himself is the one who sustains us. He is more important than bread is for the physical body. Jesus does not say that it is unimportant to care for the needs of the body, he is simply saying that this type of need is only temporary, but our need for eternal life in Christ will never fade. This is another example of two themes of John, "I Am" statements and "eternal life". These two phrases show up again and again. The point being, Jesus is the great "I am" revealed on Sinai, he is truly God. Secondly, he came to bring eternal life to his people. And concerning this he says something very encouraging. No one who comes to him for this life will be turned away. NO ONE. Never allow anyone to dictate who is able to come before the throne of God. He will accept all who call upon his name.
So true, Brother Matt. Jesus is the top dog. Nobody has the authority to decide who can & can't get to Heaven, except Jesus.
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