Commentary on John 6:62

John 6:62 presents an important moment in the ministry of Jesus Christ, as He addresses the doubts and challenges posed by his disciples and followers. This verse invites deeper reflection on the spiritual and theological implications of Christ's teaching, particularly regarding the nature of faith and the significance of His incarnation.

Understanding the Context

The context of John 6 contains the discourse following the miracle of the feeding of the five thousand. Here, Jesus elaborates on the true nature of the bread of life, contrasting physical sustenance with spiritual nourishment. John 6:62 says:

"What then if you should see the Son of Man ascend where He was before?"

Exegesis of John 6:62

The Question's Significance

This question posed by Jesus is critical. It challenges His followers to consider the implications of His divine identity and mission. Matthew Henry emphasizes that "...the glory of Christ’s ascension is a powerful motive to faith." It suggests that understanding Jesus’ divine origins and His ascension should strengthen their faith rather than weaken it.

Ascension and Faith

Albert Barnes expounds on the ascension as a profound event that illustrates Christ's authority over heaven and earth. He states, "The ascension of Christ is a full assurance of His divine nature and sovereignty." This connects to the theme of belief central to the Gospel of John and underscores the spiritual reality followers must embrace.

Faith in Spiritual Realities

Adam Clarke notes that this verse indicates that seeing is not believing. Many of the followers of Jesus had difficulties with His claim to be the bread of life, particularly when that bread implies a level of spiritual commitment and understanding that goes beyond the physical. Clarke argues, “It is not about physical sight, but spiritual insight that leads to genuine faith.”

Theological Implications

Christology

This verse is pivotal in understanding the dual nature of Christ, both human and divine. As He invites His disciples to think about His ascension, He not only hints at his departure but also at the glorification that awaits Him. According to Henry, this highlights "the importance of recognizing Jesus not just as a teacher or prophet but as the divine Son of God." This Christological foundation calls Christians to acknowledge the mystery of the incarnation in faith.

Faith and Doubt

The reaction of the disciples points to a broader theme of doubt in faith. When faced with the deeper realities of Christ’s mission, their skepticism unfolds. According to Barnes, “Many are tempted to forsake the faith when the truth becomes too difficult to comprehend.” He invites believers to move beyond mere human logic into the realm of divine truth revealed through faith.

Practical Application

For pastors and church leaders, John 6:62 serves as a crucial teaching point. It challenges them to equip congregations to wrestle with difficult theological concepts and to embrace a faith that acknowledges Christ’s divine authority. Here are some implications:

• Encouraging Deep Belief: Teach congregations about the importance of faith in the unseen and the eternal implications of Christ's work.
• Addressing Doubts: Create a safe environment for believers to express doubts and questions about their faith, fostering an atmosphere of exploration.
• Highlighting Christ’s Authority: Regularly incorporate teachings about the ascension and its significance in affirming Jesus’ divine kingship over every area of life.

Conclusion

In summary, John 6:62 compels Christians to reflect on the deeper meanings of Christ's identity and the nature of true faith. By contemplating the ascension of Christ, believers are encouraged to grow in their spiritual understanding and commitment. The insights provided by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke interweave to form a rich tapestry of understanding that is invaluable for those who seek to delve deeper into the scriptures. Ultimately, this verse beckons all followers of Christ to a more profound belief in who He is and the reality of His work beyond the physical realm.