41 Then the people began to murmur in disagreement because he had said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” 42 They said, “Isn’t this Jesus, the son of Joseph? We know his father and mother. How can he say, ‘I came down from heaven’?”

43 But Jesus replied, “Stop complaining about what I said. 44 For no one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them to me, and at the last day I will raise them up. 45 As it is written in the Scriptures, ‘They will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him comes to me. 46 (Not that anyone has ever seen the Father; only I, who was sent from God, have seen him.)

John 6:41-46 (NLT)

Can’t comprehend

These Jews are flabbergasted. They just can’t figure out who Jesus is. It’s very annoying to them and causes them to complain and murmur – like the Israelites did in the wilderness against Moses and God. They think, “Jesus says He has come down from Heaven – even as some kind of bread, but we know His parents, Joseph and Mary so how can this be?” They can’t believe it – or don’t want to. 

Disbelief or Wonder

So that’s the question. Do they choose to disbelieve Jesus’ claim or are they sincerely wondering in amazement? It’s probably some of both. Some (most?) don’t want to believe. It doesn’t fit with their religion. It’s too convicting if it’s true. But a few wonder in amazement at Jesus’ words. They truly seek this special bread, this resurrection Jesus speaks of. They have sought to know the Father and learn from scripture; not just read to “check the box” of their daily religious duty.

Drawn to Jesus

These are drawn to Jesus by the Father. “The Jews thought that they were all chosen by God by virtue of their physical, natural birth. Jesus made it clear that God must draw them before they can come to God. Everyone who responds to the Father will respond to the Son.” (enduringword.com) This is the mystery of faith and works. The Father draws, but we must respond and believe. “Unless God thus draw, no man will ever come to Christ; because none could, without this drawing, ever feel the need of a Saviour.” (Clarke’s commentary)

<- Reflection ->

• Are you being drawn to Jesus? I think you know. Keep seeking the Truth, Jesus. Believe in Jesus.
• Has your Bible reading become a religious routine, to “check the box” and “get credit” from God? He wants a relationship with us. That requires communication – through His Word and prayer.