What's In It For Me? (John 6:24-35) Ordinary 18 Year B

Summary

In this week's video talk, the speaker discusses John 6:24-35, where Jesus reveals the true motives of the crowd seeking him for material gain rather than spiritual enlightenment. He emphasizes that genuine belief in Jesus involves trusting in his teachings, recognizing his unique kingship through the cross, and embracing his sacrificial love. The speaker also reflects on the challenges of pleasing everyone in ministry and encourages trusting Jesus for eternal life, beyond physical needs.

Takeaways

• 📖 The script begins with a recap of the previous week's discussion on John chapter 6, where Jesus fed the 5,000 and the subsequent events.
• 🔍 The crowd's search for Jesus and their motives are questioned, with Jesus pointing out that they seek Him for the wrong reasons, not for the signs but for the loaves they ate.
• 🍞 Jesus introduces the concept of 'true bread from heaven', emphasizing the spiritual nourishment that comes from believing in Him over physical sustenance.
• 🙏 The work of God, according to Jesus, is to believe in the one He has sent, highlighting the importance of faith over seeking signs or miracles.
• 🤔 The crowd's desire for a sign like the manna in the wilderness is contrasted with Jesus' teaching on the spiritual bread that gives eternal life.
• 💧 The speaker takes a moment for a personal aside, mentioning a sabbatical and reflecting on the 'what's in it for me' attitude prevalent in society.
• 👑 Jesus' rejection of the crowd's desire to make Him king by force and His emphasis on spiritual leadership rather than temporal power is discussed.
• 🕊 The concept of discipleship is explored, with Jesus allowing those who do not truly believe to go, showing the importance of genuine faith over forced adherence.
• 🌐 The speaker challenges the modern church to consider its approach to pleasing people versus staying true to Jesus' teachings.
• ❤️ Believing in Jesus involves trusting in His teachings, which often challenge societal norms and require a radical shift in perspective.
• ✝️ Trusting in Jesus' kingship means recognizing His authority and the transformative power of His sacrifice on the cross.
• 💖 Trusting in Jesus' love involves embracing His teachings and His sacrifice, understanding that His actions are for our benefit and the world's transformation.

Q & A

What event in John chapter 6 is the speaker referring to at the beginning of the video?

The speaker is referring to the event where Jesus fed the 5,000 and then escaped with his disciples across the Sea of Galilee to avoid being made king by force by the crowd.

Why did the crowd in John 6:24-35 go to Capernaum?

The crowd went to Capernaum in search of Jesus after realizing that neither he nor his disciples were present where they initially were.

What does Jesus imply about the crowd's motives for seeking him in John 6:26?

Jesus implies that the crowd is seeking him not because they recognized the signs he performed, but because they were satisfied by the loaves they ate and were looking for more physical benefits.

What is the 'true bread from heaven' according to Jesus in John 6?

The 'true bread from heaven' is Jesus himself, who gives life to the world and offers eternal life to those who believe in him.

What is the work of God that Jesus mentions to the crowd?

The work of God, according to Jesus, is to believe in the one he has sent, which is Jesus himself.

What does the speaker imply about the attitude of people seeking benefits from following Jesus?

The speaker implies that people often seek Jesus for personal benefits rather than genuine faith, similar to the crowd in the scripture who were only geographically following Jesus.

What does the speaker compare the crowd's attitude to in terms of seeking from Jesus?

The speaker compares the crowd's attitude to the 'what's in it for me' mentality often found in wider society, including politicians during elections.

What does the speaker suggest is the main difference between Jesus's kingship and the one the crowd imagined?

The speaker suggests that Jesus's kingship is spiritual and heavenly, expressed through his sacrificial death on the cross, rather than a military or worldly power as the crowd imagined.

What are the three aspects of trusting in Jesus that the speaker identifies?

The three aspects are trusting in Jesus's teachings, trusting in his kingship as seen at the cross, and trusting in his love for humanity.

What does the speaker suggest is the proper attitude for Christians during worship?

The speaker suggests that the proper attitude for Christians during worship is one of giving rather than getting, focusing on the act of worship itself rather than personal benefits.

What does the speaker imply about the church's approach to pleasing people?

The speaker implies that the church should not soften or redesign its message to please people but should maintain the integrity of its teachings, even if it means people may leave.

Outlines

00:00

📖 The Search for Jesus and the True Bread from Heaven

In this segment, the speaker revisits the biblical narrative of Jesus feeding the 5,000 and the subsequent pursuit of Jesus by the crowd who wanted to make him king. The focus then shifts to John 6:24-35, where Jesus addresses the crowd's motives for seeking him, highlighting that they were driven by the physical sustenance they received rather than the spiritual signs. Jesus introduces the concept of the 'bread of life' and emphasizes the eternal life that comes from believing in him, contrasting the temporal benefits sought by the crowd with the eternal significance of faith. The speaker also reflects on societal attitudes that mirror the crowd's 'what's in it for me' approach, drawing parallels with modern politics and societal expectations.

05:02

🔍 The Misunderstanding of Motives and the Essence of Belief

This paragraph delves into the crowd's misunderstanding of Jesus' teachings and their motives for following him. The speaker points out that while there are benefits to following Jesus, the crowd's primary motivation was self-centered, focusing on physical fulfillment rather than spiritual growth. The speaker contrasts this with genuine belief, which involves trusting in Jesus' teachings, his role as the Messiah, and the significance of his works. The narrative emphasizes that Jesus did not aim to please the crowd but to guide them towards a deeper understanding of faith. The speaker also touches on the challenges faced by church leaders in trying to satisfy congregations that may have similar self-serving attitudes.

10:02

🛐 Embracing Jesus' Teachings, Kingship, and Love

The speaker discusses the threefold nature of true belief in Jesus: trusting in his teachings, acknowledging his kingship, and recognizing his love. Jesus' teachings challenge societal norms, promoting selflessness, forgiveness, and service. His kingship, unlike worldly expectations, is demonstrated through his sacrifice on the cross, which is presented as a transformative event for believers and the world. The speaker suggests that trusting in Jesus' love involves embracing his teachings and understanding the significance of his crucifixion as the means by which he changes lives and the world. The paragraph concludes with the idea that it is through this trust that believers receive the blessings they seek, not through self-serving actions.

15:05

📅 Anticipating the Next Video and Reflecting on Trust in Jesus

In the final paragraph, the speaker informs the audience of a temporary hiatus from video production to spend time with family and announces the return date. The focus then returns to the theme of trust in Jesus, highlighting that it is through entrusting oneself to Jesus that one receives spiritual fulfillment and the 'bread of life' that satisfies beyond physical hunger. The speaker concludes by wishing the audience God's blessings and love, emphasizing their status as God's beloved children, and signs off with an invitation to return for the next video session.

Keywords

💡John Chapter 6

John Chapter 6 is a reference to a specific section of the Bible, where Jesus performs the miracle of feeding 5,000 people with five loaves of bread and two fish. This event is central to the video's discussion, highlighting Jesus' divine power and the crowd's response to his miracles.

💡Disciples

Disciples in the script refer to the close followers of Jesus. They are significant as they are the ones who initially escape with Jesus across the Sea of Galilee, demonstrating their loyalty and connection to Jesus, despite the challenges they face.

💡Sea of Galilee

The Sea of Galilee is a large freshwater lake in Israel, mentioned in the script as the location where Jesus and his disciples escape to. It serves as a backdrop for the narrative, symbolizing a place of refuge and spiritual significance.

💡Bread of Life

In the script, 'Bread of Life' is a metaphor used by Jesus to describe himself, indicating that he is the source of eternal life. This concept is pivotal as it underscores the spiritual nourishment Jesus provides, contrasting with the physical bread that the crowd seeks.

💡Signs

Signs in the context of the video refer to the miracles performed by Jesus, such as feeding the multitudes and walking on water. These signs are significant as they demonstrate Jesus' divine nature, yet the crowd's motivation for seeking Jesus is criticized for being based on these signs rather than genuine faith.

💡Manna

Manna is a biblical term referring to the food that God provided for the Israelites during their 40 years in the wilderness. In the script, Jesus contrasts the manna with the 'true bread from heaven,' which is himself, emphasizing the eternal nature of spiritual sustenance over temporal nourishment.

💡Sabbatical

A sabbatical in the script is a period of rest or a break from work, mentioned in relation to the speaker's personal experience. It serves as a metaphor for the need for spiritual and personal renewal, contrasting with the constant pursuit of material benefits seen in the crowd's behavior.

💡What's in it for me?

This phrase encapsulates the self-centered attitude of the crowd and some individuals in society, as they seek personal gain rather than genuine spiritual growth. It is a central theme in the video, illustrating the contrast between seeking material benefits and seeking a deeper relationship with Jesus.

💡Belief

Belief in the script is not merely acknowledging Jesus' existence but trusting in him and his teachings. It is a key concept as it differentiates between superficial adherence and a transformative faith that impacts one's life and actions.

💡Kingship

Kingship in the context of the video refers to Jesus' divine authority and rule, which is distinct from earthly rulership. It is significant as it highlights Jesus' role as the true king, whose reign is established through his sacrifice on the cross, rather than through conventional power.

💡Trust

Trust in the script is the act of relying on Jesus, both in his teachings and his role as the savior. It is a fundamental aspect of faith, as it involves embracing Jesus' message and surrendering one's life to his guidance, which is essential for spiritual growth and transformation.

Highlights

Jesus fed 5,000 people and then escaped with disciples across the Sea of Galilee when the crowd wanted to make him king by force.

The crowd's search for Jesus led them to Capernaum, where they questioned his arrival, to which Jesus replied about seeking him for the wrong reasons.

Jesus emphasizes the importance of seeking eternal life and the spiritual nourishment he provides, rather than physical sustenance.

The true work of God is to believe in Jesus, the one sent by God, as stated by Jesus himself.

Jesus challenges the crowd's desire for a sign, pointing out that it is not Moses but God who provides the true bread from heaven.

Jesus declares himself as the Bread of Life, offering eternal sustenance to those who believe in him.

The speaker reflects on the self-centered attitude often found in society, including within the church, contrasting it with Jesus' teachings.

Believing in Jesus involves more than acknowledging his existence; it requires trusting in his teachings and entrusting our lives to him.

The teachings of Jesus often contradict societal norms, requiring a radical trust in his guidance for a life of love and service.

Jesus' kingship is expressed through his sacrifice on the cross, which is central to believing in his transformative power.

Believing in Jesus involves trusting in his love, which is demonstrated through his life among the poor and his sacrificial death on the cross.

The speaker discusses the challenges of pleasing everyone in ministry and the importance of staying true to Jesus' message.

The speaker emphasizes that the blessings we seek come from trusting in Jesus, not from self-serving attitudes.

The video concludes with the speaker taking a sabbatical to spend time with family and returning in three weeks.

The speaker leaves the audience with a reminder of God's love and blessings, encouraging them until the next video.

Transcripts

uh

welcome to this week's uh video talk

last week we were in the beginning of

john chapter 6

where jesus fed the 5 000 and then when

the crowd wanted

to make him king by force he

and the disciples escaped

across the sea of galilee the disciples

initially in the boat

uh jesus joining them later in the boat

having walked on the water

and they tried to get away well we pick

it up slightly after that

uh this week at john 6 24

the crowd has been looking for jesus

and eventually they catch up with him

john

6 verses 24-35

once the crowd realized that neither

jesus nor his disciples were there they

got into the boats

and went to capernaum in search of jesus

when they found him on the other side of

the lake they asked him

rabbi when did you get here

jesus answered them very truly i tell

you

you're looking for me not because you

saw the signs i performed

but because you ate the loaves and had

your fill

do not work for food that spoils but for

food that endures

to eternal life which the son of man

will give you

for on him god the father has placed his

seal of approval

then they asked him what must we do to

do the works god requires

jesus answered the work of god is this

to believe in the one he has sent

so they asked him what sign then will

you give

that we may see it and believe you

what will you do our ancestors

ate the manna in the wilderness as it is

written

he gave them bread from heaven to eat

jesus said to them very truly i tell you

it is not moses who has given you the

bread from heaven

but it is my father who gives you the

true bread from heaven

for the bread of god is the bread that

comes down from heaven

and gives life to the world

so they said always give us this bread

then jesus declared i am the bread of

life

whoever comes to me will never go hungry

and whoever believes in me

will never be thirsty

but at this moment i am physically

thirsty so excuse me while i

glug some water

when it was announced in one of my

previous

appointments that i was due a sabbatical

the only reaction from my senior steward

at one of my churches was

what's he going to bring back for us

there was no concern that it might be

beneficial

for me or that i might need it

it was rather like the what's in it for

me

question that we often find in wider

society i mean politicians know how

significant

that question is don't they and so when

elections

come around their manifestos and their

media messages are all packed with what

they are going to do

for the voters much more

than their vision of what a better

society would be

and what's in it for me is very much

the attitude of the crowd that has

hunted down

jesus and his disciples after they tried

to escape across the water

when jesus knew that that crowd wanted

to make him king by force and

and so that's really what what jesus

tells them their motives

are your your motives are what's in it

for me

so in verse 26 jesus answered very truly

i tell you

you're looking for me not because you

saw the signs i performed

but because you ate your loaves and had

your fill

what's in it for me i'm not going to

deny

that there are many benefits that come

from

following jesus but the crowd were only

following jesus in a geographical sense

they weren't following him as their

teacher

let alone as their lord and savior

they were in it for themselves

and if we're honest sometimes our words

and

actions as christians betray

similar attitudes you ever heard someone

on sunday morning say

i didn't get much out of that service

completely missing the fact that an

act of worship is fundamentally an

act of giving not an act of getting

and jesus instead

puts this before the crowd about what

they're to do he says

the work of god is this to believe

in the one he has sent

but is that good enough for the crowd

well no

they want a sign like manna from heaven

despite what they've just witnessed with

the feeding of the five thousand

you know there's there's just no

pleasing some people is there

which i guess is the point jesus

hasn't come just to please people

um any more than ministers

other church leaders have you know

sometimes when some strangers discover

what my work is

they say to me it must be very difficult

for you

trying to please all the people all the

time

to which my usual response is to say

actually it isn't my job to please

everyone

you get the impression in the story that

no matter what jesus says

this crowd has very little intention

of becoming disciples in fact were you

to

skip to the end of the chapter

you'll find that apart from jesus's

inner circle nearly everyone

bails on him

and when they do jesus lets them go

he doesn't soften his message for them

he doesn't redesign his message

around their lived experiences

and that's something that today's church

would do well to ponder

so what does it mean to believe in the

one

whom god has sent

what does it mean therefore to feed on

jesus the bread of life

well if it's about believing him

let's eliminate one very basic very

minimal thing

believing in jesus is not simply about

believing he exists that crowd knew he

existed he was there in front of them

it can't be that it's

something more it's believing

in him in the sense of trusting him

and trusting him to the extent

that we entrust our very lives to him

so what does that involve well here are

three things that occurred to me i'm

sure you can fill it out with more

than just this list firstly

it's going to involve trusting in his

teaching

and that's quite a radical step to begin

with so much of jesus's teaching

cuts across the norms of his day

and it cuts across every bit as much if

not more

the norms of our culture loving god and

loving our neighbor ahead of ourselves

forgiving people that our society labels

unforgivable serving others instead of

lording it over them

oh sure

when we do see some other people living

selfish

selflessly we applaud

and we nominate them for an honor from

the queen

but to think that we should all do this

isn't that a bit

much we'll let these other

noble people do the good acts

vicariously for us

but you see if we believe in jesus

and his teaching we can't make excuses

like that to believe in him is going to

involve

an act of trust that embraces

his teaching not just in our heads

but in our hearts in our hands in our

feet

secondly it's going to involve

trusting in his kingship

and of course jesus's own kingship is

very different

from the one that the crowd imagined

you know for jesus no military ruler

killing his enemies here instead

when jesus spoke about his kingship i

mean you remember he said to pilate

that his kingdom was he didn't say not

of this world he said it was

not from this world because his kingship

came from heaven

but then that kingship was expressed

differently he talked about being lifted

up and of course

you know a king would be lifted up would

be exalted

he said when i am lifted up

from the earth i will draw all people

to myself

but the place where jesus was lifted up

from the earth was the cross

jesus was enthroned

at the cross that's where

he is seen as king of israel

and king of all creation

believing in jesus and his kingship

means trusting that his cross

is what changes the world the cross

is where notice is served on the powers

of evil the cross

is where the king pronounces our sins

forgiven

and we begin the journey of living

a new and ever

increasingly different life

so to believe in him means trusting in

his teaching it means trusting in his

kingship seen at the cross

thirdly it's going to involve

trusting in his love

because all that i've mentioned so far

about the teaching of jesus and of his

cross

indicate one upside down approach

to life that he brings does he have our

best

interests at heart when he calls us to

self-denial

how exactly can his death

serve as the turning point of history

i believe jesus knows

that what he asks of us is the opposite

of what the world broadcasts

but you know he invites us to look at

all he has done for us

and then answer the question

about whether he loves us and whether we

will trust him

in particular i think he reminds

us

of his love in these ways that in love

he was willing to give up the glory of

heaven

and live among the poor and in love

he was willing to give up his life on

the cross

to change us and change the world

all this is for us

to trust in his great love for us

and hence also

to trust in his teaching

and is his kingship enthroned at the

cross

and it's with that relationship of trust

that comes all the blessings we long for

they don't come from god by us

grabbing all we can for ourselves with

that

what's in it for me attitude

it's by trusting ourselves into

jesus's hands that we gain

more than physical bread

to fill our stomachs

we gain jesus himself

the bread of life and we will never

grow hungry again

i hope you find that helpful

normally at this point i

invite you to um look forward to next

week into the next video but

in fact the next video will be in three

weeks time because

i'm going to be taking a couple of weeks

off to

spend with my family over the middle of

august

so i will

see you again on this channel from

sunday the 22nd of august

in the meantime may you know that god

blesses you

and loves you as his dearly beloved

children

see you soon bye

you