Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry highlights Jesus's declaration of Himself as the "living bread". He points out that this bread is not merely sustenance but is vital for eternal life. The phrase "came down from heaven" accentuates the divine origin of Christ's nature and His sacrifice for humanity.

• Divine Origin: Henry stresses the importance of recognizing Jesus as both fully God and fully man, indicating that His divine nature is necessary for the eternal sustenance of believers.
• Living Bread: The term 'living' contrasts with the physical bread, which, despite providing temporary nourishment, does not impart eternal life. This distinction suggests that only in Christ can one experience true life.

Albert Barnes's Notes

Albert Barnes elaborates on the metaphor of bread. He explains that bread is the most essential food for humans and relates this to Jesus being essential for spiritual life. He underscores that taking part in Jesus (the bread) involves deeper spiritual acceptance.

• Spiritual Sustenance: Barnes indicates that just as physical bread sustains the body, so Christ sustains the soul. Consuming the "bread" implies a commitment to follow Jesus and accept Him as one’s Savior.
• Life Forever: The promise of "living forever" depicts not just existence after death, but a quality of life marked by intimate communion with God — reflecting the essence of salvation.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke discusses the sacrificial aspect of Jesus's declaration, particularly when He states that He will give His flesh for "the life of the world." Clarke interprets this as a foreshadowing of the crucifixion and highlights the universal scope of salvation offered through Christ’s sacrifice.

• Universal Offering: Clarke points to the implication that Jesus's sacrifice is not exclusive but is offered to all of humanity. This all-encompassing nature of Christ’s gift is central to Christian doctrine.
• Sacrificial Love: The emphasis on 'my flesh' signifies the physical and painful nature of Christ's sacrifice, which is fundamental for the redemption of the world.