Is it worth it to follow Jesus? (John 6:60-69) August 22, 2021

Summary

The video script explores the biblical narrative in John 6:60-69, where Jesus' disciples question the worthiness of following Him after His 'Bread of Life' discourse. It delves into the disciples' doubt, the crowd's misunderstanding, and Jesus' response to their faith crisis. The script emphasizes the importance of staying open to the Spirit and trusting in God's promises amidst challenges. It concludes with Peter's affirmation of faith, highlighting the choice to stand with Jesus despite difficulties.

Takeaways

• 📖 The disciples questioned the worthiness of following Jesus during his 'Bread of Life' discourse in John 6:60-69.
• 🤔 The crowd misunderstood Jesus' words, leading to confusion and departure, while the disciples, who were closer to Jesus, murmured about the difficulty of his teachings.
• 💬 It was the disciples, not the crowd, who asked Jesus if it was worth following him, reflecting their internal struggle with his teachings.
• 👥 The distinction between the crowd and the disciples is that the disciples were closer to Jesus and understood his teachings, yet still found it hard to believe.
• 😢 Jesus likely felt pain and hurt when his close disciples doubted and abandoned him, similar to the pain one feels when close friends lose trust.
• 🗣️ Jesus' pattern in conversation was to sharpen his message and raise the level of offense when faced with objections, leading to a crisis in faith.
• 🔑 The 'flesh is useless' statement by Jesus in John 6:63 refers to the limitations of human senses in understanding spiritual truths and the need for the Spirit's guidance.
• 🙏 The response to the question 'Is it worth it to follow Jesus?' is to stay open to the Spirit and the Father's gift of faith and eternal life.
• 🕊️ Peter's declaration on behalf of the eleven represents the choice to stay with Jesus despite difficulties, highlighting the importance of faith and commitment.
• 🔄 Jesus' challenge to the disciples to decide whether to continue following him is a call for personal commitment and response to faith.
• 🌟 The story encourages believers to stand by Jesus, even in the face of unpopularity and rejection, and to experience the glory of the Father through the Spirit.

Q & A

What specific question did the disciples ask Jesus in John chapter 6, verses 60 to 69?

The disciples asked Jesus if it was worth it to follow Him, after hearing His 'Bread of Life' discourse which they found difficult to comprehend.

Why did the crowd misunderstand Jesus' message about eating His flesh and drinking His blood?

The crowd misunderstood because they took Jesus' words literally, thinking He was inviting them to a gruesome act, rather than understanding the spiritual metaphor.

How did the disciples react to Jesus' 'Bread of Life' discourse?

The disciples were confused and found the discourse hard, leading them to murmur among themselves and question their decision to follow Jesus.

What was the difference between the crowd and the disciples in terms of their relationship with Jesus?

The disciples were a close group of followers who had seen Jesus' miracles and teachings up close, unlike the crowd who followed Him primarily due to His miracles and parables.

How did Jesus respond to objections or difficulties in His conversations?

Jesus would sharpen the point of His message and raise the level of offense, leading the conversation to a crisis mode, rather than softening the message.

What does Jesus mean when He says 'the flesh is useless' in John chapter 6 verse 63?

Jesus is emphasizing that our senses and worldly understanding will not lead us to see the glory of God or eternal life; it is the Spirit that gives life.

What was the response of the remaining disciples when many others left Jesus?

The remaining disciples, particularly Peter, affirmed their commitment to Jesus, stating that they believed in Him and recognized Him as the Christ, the Son of the living God.

What does the script suggest we should do when faced with the question of whether it's worth it to follow Jesus?

The script suggests staying open to the Spirit, trusting in God's promises, and being willing to follow Jesus despite difficulties and challenges.

How did Peter's response to Jesus' question impact the group of disciples?

Peter's response held the group together and demonstrated the influence one person can have in maintaining faith and commitment, even when others are wavering.

What is the significance of the question 'Do you want to go away?' asked by Jesus to the remaining disciples?

This question demanded a response and commitment from the disciples during a time of apparent failure and rejection, highlighting the importance of personal choice in faith.

What is the script's final message regarding following Jesus and experiencing God's glory?

The final message encourages believers to stand by Jesus, even to the cross, to experience the glory of the Father, the life of the Spirit, and the gift of faith.