John 6 - IVP New Testament Commentaries

Jesus, the Life-Giver and Judge, Is Revealed as the Bread of Life

The heart of the revelation has now been given in Jesus' keynote address (chap. 5), in which he claims to have the divine prerogatives of life-giver and judge. These two rights will be depicted throughout the rest of the Gospel, beginning immediately with the description of Jesus as the Bread of Life--the one who not only gives life but sustains it. We also see judgment taking place as people are unable to receive this revelation. First the Jews and then most of Jesus' disciples are offended rather than enlightened. By the end of the chapter only the Twelve are left.