Commentary on John 6:28
Text: "Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?" (John 6:28, KJV)
Introduction
The passage of John 6:28 presents a pivotal moment in the dialogue between Jesus and the crowd that followed Him after the feeding of the five thousand. Here, we observe a profound inquiry from the seekers of spiritual truth. This commentary synthesizes insights from several public domain sources to present a comprehensive interpretation suitable for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars.
Contextual Background
The backdrop of this verse is essential for understanding its implications. Jesus had recently performed the miracle of feeding the multitude, which prompted the crowd to seek Him further. Their question, "What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?" reflects a deep-seated yearning for engagement in divine activities. It is crucial to explore why they sought to learn about the "works of God." This signifies a desire for active participation in spiritual matters.
Meaning of "Works of God"
The term "works of God" can be interpreted in various ways. According to Matthew Henry, it refers to the divine actions that align with God's will. The crowd, likely influenced by their recent physical sustenance, desired to understand how they could participate in God’s plans, often misinterpreting the nature of His works as merely miraculous deeds.
Albert Barnes elaborates that the "works of God" encompasses not merely miraculous signs but the broader spectrum of God's commandments and the living of a life that reflects His nature. This reflects a misunderstanding of the nature of faith and grace as it requires an understanding deeper than mere actions.
Spiritual Implications
Jesus’ response serves to redirect the crowd’s understanding of what it means to engage with God. He later emphasizes faith in Him as the primary act required to "work the works of God" (John 6:29). Adam Clarke points out that this indicates a shift from reliance on personal effort or works to trusting in Christ's redemptive work. This pivotal lesson underscores that true service to God begins with belief in His Son.
Theological Reflections
The question posed by the crowd reveals the human inclination towards self-righteousness and legalism. Many scholars agree that this reflects a broader theological struggle—rebellion against grace. As noted in Matthew Henry’s commentary, the demand for works is often a default posture, reflecting humanity’s desire to earn God’s favor through deeds rather than through faith.
Albert Barnes contrasts this by affirming that true "works of God" spring from a heart transformed by faith. Thus, it is essential to understand that obedience flows from faith—an idea further supported by various New Testament concepts that highlight the relationship between faith and works (James 2:26).
Application for Believers
This passage carries significant lessons for contemporary believers:
- Faith Over Works: Christians are reminded that effective service in God's kingdom begins with a personal faith in Jesus Christ.
- Understanding God’s Will: Believers are encouraged to seek not just to know what work to do but to understand the nature of God’s will through a relationship with Him.
- Community of Believers: The inquiry highlights the role of community in discerning and executing the will of God. Engaging with others in the faith journey can lead to deeper understanding and collective action.
Conclusion
In summary, John 6:28, when examined in detail, reveals profound truths about human striving for righteousness and the divine invitation to grace through faith. The question posed by the crowd serves not only to illustrate their misunderstanding but also to highlight Jesus’ invitation to a deeper relationship with God rooted in belief rather than mere works. This text invites scholars and believers alike to reflect on their own motivations and the true essence of serving God in their lives.
