Commentary on John 6:4

John 6:4 states, "And the passover, a feast of the Jews, was nigh." This brief verse serves as a significant contextual marker within the narrative of the Gospel of John, particularly as it sets the stage for the events of the feeding of the 5000 and consequently the discourse on the bread of life.

Contextual Background

The mention of Passover in this verse is crucial for understanding the broader implications of Christ’s miracles and teachings. The Passover commemorates God’s deliverance of Israel from bondage in Egypt, and it is within this context that Jesus performs one of His most notable miracles. The public domain commentaries provide insights that enhance our understanding of this connection.

Insights from Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry emphasizes the significance of the timing of the Passover. He notes that the Passover was a time of remembrance and reflection for the Jewish people, serving to remind them of God's providence and deliverance. Henry suggests that the presence of Passover in this narrative foreshadows the deeper spiritual truth that Jesus embodies as the true Lamb of God, who sacrifices Himself for the redemption of humanity.

Albert Barnes' Perspective

Albert Barnes points out that the Gospel of John often highlights the Jewish feasts to connect Jesus’ identity and mission with Jewish expectations. He mentions that “the Passover was nigh” to show that the divine plan of redemption was unfolding. In this event, the hapless multitude represents the spiritual famine faced by the people, and as the Passover signifies deliverance, so does Jesus’ forthcoming miracle and teaching about the bread symbolize His role as the sustainer of life.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke focuses on the cultural and religious significance of the Passover. He draws attention to the gathering of people that would occur during this feast, which hints at the necessity for Jesus to reveal His identity to a larger audience. Clarke notes that the proximity of this feast is essential as it stages the need for Jesus to demonstrate His authority, thus validating His claims in the face of Jewish skepticism.

Theological Implications

As we delve deeper into the theological implications of John 6:4, we find that this verse embodies a critical transition in the narrative. The observance of Passover invites reflections on God’s faithfulness and the anticipation of salvation history through Christ. This is conducive to a richer understanding for pastors and theologians.

• Connection to Redemption: The Passover symbolizes deliverance from slavery, paralleling the deliverance from sin wrought by Christ. The feeding of the 5000 serves as a metaphor for Jesus being the Bread of Life, suggesting that just as the Israelites relied on manna in the wilderness, so too must humanity rely on Christ for spiritual sustenance.
• Societal Implications: The gathering during Passover illustrates the Jewish expectation for the Messiah. This context serves to amplify the aspirations and frustrations of the people, making it essential for understanding the crowd's subsequent reaction to Jesus’ teachings.
• Historical Context: Understanding the Passover also involves awareness of its role in the socio-political landscape of first-century Judea, as it acted as a catalyst for aspirations of national identity and liberation from Roman rule. Jesus’ actions and teachings are thus layered with complexity in light of these expectations.