EGW WritingsJohn 6
Ellen G. White · Page 2 of 6
Read John 6 in the BibleJohn 6:3-13
Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1527—Lessons From the Feeding of the Five Thousand
21MR 138.2
We need to bear in mind what is written in John 6:3-13. Here Christ shows us that He takes advantage of circumstances. He knew well that there would be an opportunity for Him to become a field preacher. The multitude followed Him, and standing sometimes upon a hill, He sat in the chair of state as a teacher to give the Word, which is the bread of life, to the people. He did not give them the Scriptures, but He fed them by enlarging a small substance of temporal food—by a miracle.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 252, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 252, 1906, par. 2
We need to bear in mind what is written in John 6:3-13. Here Christ shows us that He takes advantage of circumstances. He knew well that there would be an opportunity for Him to become a field preacher. The multitude followed Him; and standing sometimes upon a hill, He sat in the chair of state as a teacher to give the Word, which is the bread of life, to the people. He did not give them the Scriptures, but He fed them by enlarging a small substance of temporal food—by a miracle. That occasion would be long remembered. Temporal food supplied to the hungry may so open the way to place Him in the chair of instruction. He did not sit at ease, yet He sat as one having authority. He condescended to bring His disciples before the large numbers to give them reputation that many would recognize in their workings that they worked as Christ had. The very deeds of mercy given by our Lord will open a door for His disciples.21LtMs, Lt 252, 1906, par. 5
“Gather up the fragments.” [Verse 12.] He who had all the resources of infinity at His command would not waste a fragment! There is to be a gathering of all the words of Christ, and these words as the bread of life are to be given to the multitude. All, however weak they may be, are to consider Jesus would have them feed the souls who are needy of instruction from the apostles. Speak the truth in love. Let all who comprehend the truth retain the impression made upon their heart which they can be able to repeat to others who did not hear the words.John 6:5-7
The Desire of Ages
Chapter 30—“He Ordained Twelve”
DA 292.2
At the head of one of the groups into which the apostles are divided stands the name of Philip. He was the first disciple to whom Jesus addressed the distinct command, “Follow Me.” Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. He had listened to the teaching of John the Baptist, and had heard his announcement of Christ as the Lamb of God. Philip was a sincere seeker for truth, but he was slow of heart to believe. Although he had joined himself to Christ, yet his announcement of Him to Nathanael shows that he was not fully convinced of the divinity of Jesus. Though Christ had been proclaimed by the voice from heaven as the Son of God, to Philip He was “Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” John 1:45. Again, when the five thousand were fed, Philip’s lack of faith was shown. It was to test him that Jesus questioned, “Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?” Philip’s answer was on the side of unbelief: “Two hundred pennyworth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may take a little.” John 6:5, 7. Jesus was grieved. Although Philip had seen His works and felt His power, yet he had not faith. When the Greeks inquired of Philip concerning Jesus, he did not seize upon the opportunity of introducing them to the Saviour, but he went to tell Andrew. Again, in those last hours before the crucifixion, the words of Philip were such as to discourage faith. When Thomas said to Jesus, “Lord, we know not whither Thou goest; and how can we know the way?” the Saviour answered, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.... If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also.” From Philip came the response of unbelief: “Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us.” John 14:5-8. So slow of heart, so weak in faith, was that disciple who for three years had been with Jesus.From Heaven With Love
Slow to Believe
HLv 193.3
Philip was the first to whom Jesus addressed the distinct command, “Follow Me.” He had heard John the Baptist’s announcement of Christ as the Lamb of God. He was a sincere seeker for truth, but was slow of heart to believe, as his announcement of Him to Nathanael shows. Though Christ had been proclaimed by the voice from heaven as the Son of God, to Philip He was “Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” John 1:45. Again, when the 5000 were fed, Philip’s lack of faith was shown. It was to test him that Jesus questioned, “Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?” Philip’s answer, on the side of unbelief, grieved Jesus: “Two hundred pennyworth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may take a little.” John 6:5, 7. Philip had seen Jesus’ works and felt His power, yet he had not faith.John 6:5-9
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 128, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 128, 1905, par. 12
The disciples finally came to Him, urging that for their own sake the people should be sent away. Many had come from far and had eaten nothing since morning. In the surrounding towns and villages they might be able to buy food. But Jesus said, “Give ye them to eat,” and turning to Philip, questioned, “Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?” [Mark 6:37; John 6:5.] This He said to test the faith of the disciples. Philip looked over the sea of heads, and thought how impossible it would be to provide food to satisfy the wants of such a crowd. He answered that two hundred pennyworth of bread would not be nearly enough to divide among them, so that each might have a little. Jesus inquired how much food could be found among the company. “There is a lad here,” said Andrew, “which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes; but what are they among so many?” [Verses 8, 9.] Jesus directed that these be brought to Him. Then He bade the disciples to seat the people on the grass in parties of fifty or a hundred, to preserve order, and that all might witness what He was about to do. When this was accomplished, Jesus took the food, “and looking up to heaven, He blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to His disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.” [Matthew 14:19.] “And they did all eat, and were filled. And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes.” [Mark 6:42, 43.]John 6:5-12
The Ministry of Healing
Five Small Barley Loaves Feed the Multitude.
MH 45.2
The sun was sinking in the west, and yet the people lingered. Finally the disciples came to Christ, urging that for their own sake the multitude should be sent away. Many had come from far and had eaten nothing since morning. In the surrounding towns and villages they might be able to obtain food. But Jesus said, “Give ye them to eat.” Matthew 14:16. Then, turning to Philip, He questioned, “Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?” John 6:5.MH 45.4
Jesus inquired how much food could be found among the company. “There is a lad here,” said Andrew; “which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?” Verse 9. Jesus directed that these be brought to Him. Then He bade the disciples seat the people on the grass. When this was accomplished, He took the food, “and looking up to heaven, He blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to His disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full.” Matthew 14:19, 20.MH 48.1
After the multitude had been fed, there was an abundance of food left. Jesus bade His disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” John 6:12. These words meant more than putting the food into baskets. The lesson was twofold. Nothing is to be wasted. We are to let slip no temporal advantage. We should neglect nothing that would serve to benefit a human being. Let everything be gathered up that will relieve the necessities of earth’s hungry ones. With the same carefulness are we to treasure the bread from heaven to satisfy the needs of the soul. By every word of God we are to live. Nothing that God has spoken is to be lost. Not one word that concerns our eternal salvation are we to neglect. Not one word is to fall useless to the ground.John 6:5-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 188, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 188, 1907, par. 10
The attraction was so great in His subject, in His actions, that they wanted His company, until five thousand were assembled on one occasion. There they were, following Him until they were faint and hungry and weary, and fainting right by the way. But they did not want to lose a word. Then how was it? He walked until He came to a grassy spot, and He bid them sit down. They had not any nice seats or chairs, but they sat down. Christ pitied them because they were fainting for want of food. He said: “Have you any meat?” “Here,” said Andrew, “is a lad, with five loaves, and a few small fishes, but what are they among so many?” Said He, “Pass them along.” They brought them to Him. Then what did He do? He took a portion and gave to the disciples, and they passed them to the people. But there was just as much left, and He kept working in that way until every one was satisfied. And then what? “Gather up the fragments; let nothing be lost.” And after having fed five thousand people, besides women and children, twelve basketfuls were gathered up. [John 6:5-13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 130, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, par. 5
He walked from place to place and the multitudes followed Him as He walked, until thousands were added to His congregation, and then He pitied them and He said to them: “Now,” He says to His disciples, “these people are weary, they have been listening to the teachings I have been giving and they are weary and they are hungry.” “Well, what shall we do?” “What have you here to eat?” “Well, we have a few loaves and two small fishes.” “Well, bring them along.” And they brought them. There they divided this little food and He says, “Give to the multitude that they may eat.” And after they were all satisfied He says, “Gather up the fragments that nothing be lost,” and they gathered up, I think it was, five or seven bushels. [Mark 6:38; John 6:5-13; Matthew 16:9, 10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 124, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 21
We want the simplicity of true godliness. We want to lead our children along. We want to educate them how to know God. And just think of Christ going from place to place on foot, and multitudes following Him all along, till they are so weary and hungry, five thousand that are on His track besides women and children, without anything to eat. Well, what are they going to do? But Christ knows. So He leads them along until He sees they are hungry. “What have you got for them to eat?” “Well, we have only a few loaves, and a few fishes, and what are they among so many?” “Well, bring them along,” He says. So they brought them along, divided them, scattered them to the multitudes. Well, after that He said, “Are all fed?” “Yes.” “How many baskets full did you take up after?” “Now,” said Christ, “gather up the fragments, let nothing be lost.” [Mark 6:38; John 6:5-13; Matthew 16:9, 10.] Now there was a miracle acted out right before them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 304, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 304, 1906, par. 8
“When Jesus then lifted up His eyes, and saw a great company come unto Him, He said unto Philip, Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?” This question was asked simply to see what Philip would say; for Jesus knew what He would do. Philip answered, “Two hundred pennyworth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may take a little.” [John 6:5, 7.]21LtMs, Lt 304, 1906, par. 9
Christ might have said to Philip, “Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known Me, Philip?” or, as the Lord answered Moses in a similar case, “Is the Lord’s hand waxen short?” [John 14:9; Numbers 11:23.] In our feeble faith we are likely to distrust God’s power and believe no further than we can see. After seeing the miracle of Christ, Philip could readily have answered, “Lord, if Thou wilt, Thou canst exert Thy power for this hungry multitude;” but now he asked, “What are they among so many?” [John 6:9.]21LtMs, Lt 304, 1906, par. 10
“Bid the men sit down,” Christ commanded; for the grass was abundant in that place. [Verse 10.] A blessing was asked upon the food, and thanks was offered for it; and never did food taste sweeter. The seemingly meager supply was passed from the hand of Christ to the disciples, and it multiplied as it was passed to them. “He distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would.” [Verse 11.]21LtMs, Lt 304, 1906, par. 12
When all had eaten, the word went forth from lips that had blessed the bread, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” “Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above to them that had eaten.” [Verses 12, 13.] Then leading the minds of the miracle-fed men from the temporal to spiritual food, Christ represented Himself as the Bread of eternal life.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 95, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 95, 1908, par. 25
Christ would not take a position in life where He could not associate closely with the people. During the days of His ministry all classes of people flocked about Him to hear His words. We read of one occasion when five thousand men, besides women and children, formed the company about Him. The time came when the people should have something to eat, but where was food to supply so many? In reply to His question, “Where shall we obtain bread that these may eat?” One of the disciples replied, “There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?” And Jesus said, “Make the men sit down.” [John 6:5, 9, 10.] Then Christ imparted the food by His miraculous power to the hungry multitude.23LtMs, Ms 95, 1908, par. 26
When all had had sufficient, He commanded, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.” [Verses 12, 13.]John 6:5-14
Conflict and Courage
A Slow Student, November 10
CC 320.1
Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? John 14:9.CC 320.2
At the head of one of the groups into which the apostles are divided stands the name of Philip. He was the first disciple to whom Jesus addressed the distinct command, “Follow me.” ... He had listened to the teaching of John the Baptist, and had heard his announcement of Christ as the Lamb of God. Philip was a sincere seeker for truth, but he was slow of heart to believe.... Though Christ had been proclaimed by the voice from heaven as the Son of God, to Philip He was “Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph” (John 1:45). Again, when the five thousand were fed, Philip’s lack of faith was shown. It was to test him that Jesus questioned, “Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?” ... Again, in those last hours before the crucifixion, the words of Philip were such as to discourage faith.... So slow of heart, so weak in faith, was that disciple who for three years had been with Jesus.20The Desire of Ages, 292, 293.CC 320.3
He wished Christ to reveal the Father in bodily form; but in Christ God had already revealed Himself. Is it possible, Christ said, that after walking with Me, hearing My words, seeing the miracle of feeding the five thousand, of healing the sick of the dread disease leprosy, of bringing the dead to life, of raising Lazarus, who was a prey to death, whose body had indeed seen corruption, you do not know Me? Is it possible that you do not discern the Father in the works that He does by Me? ... God cannot be seen in external form by any human being. Christ alone can represent the Father to humanity.21The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 5:1141, 1142.CC 320.4
In happy contrast to Philip’s unbelief was the childlike trust of Nathanael. He was a man of intensely earnest nature, one whose faith took hold upon unseen realities. Yet Philip was a student in the school of Christ, and the divine Teacher bore patiently with his unbelief and dullness. When the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the disciples, Philip became a teacher after the divine order. He knew whereof he spoke, and he taught with an assurance that carried conviction to the hearers.22The Desire of Ages, 293.John 6:6-54
Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]
MR No. 989—Jesus, Comforter of the Afflicted
12MR 304.3
These words are very precious unto me, “He that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst.... Whoso eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day” [John 6:35, 54]. Christ explains His meaning: “The flesh profiteth not; the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life” [verse 6]. Yes, the Word is the living bread. Eat of it daily. It will be a sustaining power to do all that you must do. It will infuse immortal vigor into your soul, perfect your experience, and bring to you those joys which are real, and which abide forever.John 6:9-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 19, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, par. 7
God has given Christ as a pattern of what our lives should be. Do you see Him walking in the streets and looking upon and pitying the sick? His heart is drawn out in compassion for them. He weeps for the afflicted and the suffering. He draws them close to His heart of love and heals them. Consider the great company that on one occasion followed Him, growing in numbers until there were five thousand men besides women and children. There was such attraction in his words that they could not leave Him. Finally turning to His disciples, He says to them, These are weary; they must rest, and bids that the company sit down on the greensward all prepared for them. He says to the disciples, Have you something for them to eat? One replied, “There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?” The Saviour bade the disciples bring the food to Him, and breaking it into pieces, He gave to the disciples, and the disciples to the hungry multitude. They ate and were satisfied. Then “He said unto His disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.” [Mark 6:38; John 6:9, 12, 13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 7, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, par. 20
We read of one occasion when five thousand men besides women and children were gathered to hear Him. When the day was far spent, the disciples came to the Saviour and urged Him to send the people away. Some were fainting by the way, and they had nothing to eat. To the question of Christ, What food have you? the reply was given, “Five barley loaves and two small fishes.” “Bring them to Me,” said Christ, and there, breaking the loaves into pieces, and handing to His disciples, and the disciples to the multitude, the hungry multitude ate of the food provided until all were satisfied. While the food was being passed from hand to hand, the wonderful miracle was wrought that converted that small supply into sufficient to feed so great a multitude. Then said Christ, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost. And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments and of the fishes.” [Mark 6:38; Matthew 14:18; John 6:9, 12, 13.]John 6:10-14
The Health Food Ministry
The Object of Health Food Work
HFM 88.3
In the feeding of the five thousand, Christ passed food from His hands to the hands of the disciples. Of this we read, “So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. And Jesus took the loaves; and when He had given thanks, He distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down.” John 6:10, 11.HFM 88.5
After the hunger of the people had been satisfied, the word was given, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” John 6:12.HFM 88.6
Then follows the history of Christ’s giving the Word of life. Although Christ could furnish a supply of temporal food as often as He desired, yet He did not often perform a like miracle. When the people saw this miracle, they said, “This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world.” John 6:14. Will they eat as readily of the bread of life, the Word-food, as they did of the temporal food? Their minds, corrupted by false teaching, would not so readily receive the word of eternal life....John 6:10-35
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 81, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 81, 1906, par. 2
In the feeding of the five thousand, Christ passed food from His hands to the hands of the disciples. Of this we read, “So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. And Jesus took the loaves; and when He had given thanks, He distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down.” [John 6:10, 11.]21LtMs, Ms 81, 1906, par. 4
After the hunger of the people had been satisfied, the word was given, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [Verse 12.]21LtMs, Ms 81, 1906, par. 5
Then follows the history of Christ’s giving the Word of life. Although Christ could furnish a supply of temporal food as often as He desired, yet He did not often perform a like miracle. When the people saw this miracle, they said, “This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world.” [Verse 14.] Will they eat as readily of the Bread of life, the Word-food, as they did of the temporal food? Their minds, corrupted by false teaching, would not so readily receive the Word of eternal life.21LtMs, Ms 81, 1906, par. 6
“Verily, verily, I say unto you,” Christ said, “Ye seek Me, not because ye saw the miracle, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. Labor not for the meat that perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you; for Him hath the Father sealed. Then said they unto Him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, That ye believe on Him whom He hath sent.” [Verses 26-29.]21LtMs, Ms 81, 1906, par. 7
He assured them that Moses gave them not the bread from heaven. “My Father,” He said, “giveth you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.” [Verses 32, 33.]21LtMs, Ms 81, 1906, par. 9
“I am the Bread of life,” the author, nourisher, and supporter of eternal, spiritual life. In the thirty-fifth verse of the sixth chapter of John, Christ represents Himself under the similitude of heavenly bread. To eat His flesh and to drink His blood means to receive Him as a heaven-sent teacher. Belief in Him is essential to spiritual life. Those who feast on the Word never hunger, never thirst, never desire any higher or more exalted good. “In righteousness shalt thou be established; thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear; and from terror; for it shall not come near thee. Behold, they shall surely gather together but not by Me; whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake. ... No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper, and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of Me, saith the Lord.” [Isaiah 54:14, 15, 17.]John 6:10-37
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 60, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 60, 1897, par. 8
“Him that cometh unto me, I will in no wise cast out.” [John 6:37.] If he would only listen, if he would only hear, if he would only take time to consider, he could not but discern in these invitations the superior goodness that invites him, that it is the voice of the true Shepherd that calls him, and that God will give him something of more value than gold or silver or precious stones. O, that the man of wealth, in the place of trusting in uncertain riches, would realize that he is a responsible agent, a steward of the means entrusted to him, that God calls upon him to be faithful in the use and improvement of his goods, and that he may, if he will, become a distinguished worker together with God in uplifting humanity, the beings whom Christ came to the world to save.12LtMs, Ms 60, 1897, par. 21
This is the work of God that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent, that you go to Him for counsel and instruction, and pray and watch and work. Waste nothing in your life practice. Jesus worked a miracle to feed the five thousand tired, hungry multitude. He selected a pleasant place to accommodate the people: “for there was much grass in that place,” and the Lord gave His orders, commanding the people to sit down. [John 6:10.] Then took He the five loaves and two small fishes. No doubt many remarks were made as to the impossibility of satisfying five thousand hungry men, beside women and children, from that scanty store. Then Jesus gave thanks and placed the food in the hands of the disciples to be distributed to the multitude. The food increased in the hands of the disciples as they gave to the multitude.12LtMs, Ms 60, 1897, par. 23
The necessities of the great multitude were supplied. Then comes the words of Christ, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [Verse 12.] He who had all resources at His command gives a lesson that not a fragment should be wasted. He who has plenty should not waste. Let nothing be wasted that can do good to any one. Collect every fragment, for some one will need it. These lessons in regard to spiritual blessings bestowed are to be carefully treasured.John 6:11
From the Heart
Receiving to Give, March 17
FH 88.1
Jesus took the loaves, and when He had given thanks He distributed them to the disciples, and the disciples to those sitting down; and likewise of the fish, as much as they wanted. John 6:11.John 6:12
Christ’s Object Lessons
Money
COL 352.2
But Christ sanctions no lavish or careless use of means. His lesson in economy, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost,” is for all His followers. (John 6:12.) He who realizes that his money is a talent from God will use it economically, and will feel it a duty to save that he may give.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
Economy at Home
3TT 74.2
Money is a needed treasure; let it not be lavished upon those who do not need it. Some one needs your willing gifts. Too often those who have means fail to consider how many in the world are hungry, starving for food. They may say: “I cannot feed them all.” But by practicing Christ’s lessons on economy you can feed one. It may be that you can feed many who are hungering for temporal food. And you can feed their souls with the bread of life. “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” John 6:12. These words were spoken by Him who had all the resources of the universe at His command; while His miracle-working power supplied thousands with food, He did not disdain to teach a lesson in economy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 1, 1869
2LtMs, Lt 1, 1869, par. 15
Jesus wrought a miracle and fed five thousand and then he taught an important lesson of economy: “Gather up the fragments that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 5, 1877
3LtMs, Lt 5, 1877, par. 21
Jesus taught His disciples lessons of economy. “Gather up the fragments,” He said, “that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] God varies the talents He entrusts us with, according to our capabilities. To one He gave five, to another two, and to another one talent. The man that had the one talent put it in a napkin and hid it in the earth. He did not improve it. He buried his talent in the world, and he was denounced for so doing. “Take ye the talent from him,” said the Master, “and give it to him who has improved and doubled his talents, and take ye the unprofitable servant, and cast him into outer darkness,” etc. [Matthew 25:28.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 5, 1884
4LtMs, Lt 5, 1884, par. 11
All our talents should be used; they should not be allowed to rust through inaction. All our influence should be used to the very best account. After Christ fed the multitude, He said, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] This lesson may apply to spiritual things <as well as temporal.> Those who do not appreciate and make the best use of their spiritual blessings, gathering up every precious ray of light, will soon become indifferent and inappreciative! Blessings are not given to those who do not value them. All our physical energies as one of God’s talents, should be used to the glory of God. Our influence is to be recognized and employed as belonging to God. God calls upon all to do their best.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 20a, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 20a, 1893, par. 44
We must learn meekness and humility from Jesus if we ever enter the portals of bliss. His whole life, from the manger to Calvary, is to be our example in self-denial and sacrifice. He who came to lay down His life for the world did not disdain to give His disciples a lesson in economy. After He had fed the multitudes by a miracle of His power, He said to the disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] Though He had all the resources of heaven at His command, He would not suffer even a morsel of bread to be wasted. We might have much more to give to the cause of God if we would learn to “gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 60, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 60, 1894, par. 2
Let every one cherish love for, and confidence in, one another in order that we may safely counsel together with brotherly love, in honor preferring one another. Let all the churches be taught lessons of economy in every line. Let every family heed the lesson which Christ has given. When He worked the miracle of feeding the multitudes who followed Him into a desert place, He said to His disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] Let every member of the family who professes to believe the truth, watch and pray, and have works that correspond to the truth they believe. Let parents and children consider the fact that as the Father sent His Son into the world to represent Him, so Christ has sent us into the world to be His representatives. This we may do by not merely teaching the law in words, but by living out the principles of the law as Christ has given us an example.Counsels on Health
Principle Must Control
CH 281.2
Christ once gave His disciples a lesson upon economy, which is worthy of careful attention. He wrought a miracle to feed the hungry thousands who had listened to His teachings; yet after all had eaten and were satisfied, He did not permit the fragments to be wasted. He who could, in their necessity, feed the vast multitude by His divine power, bade His disciples gather up the fragments, that nothing might be lost. This lesson was given as much for our benefit as for those living in Christ’s day. The Son of God has a care for the necessities of temporal life. He did not neglect the broken fragments after the feast, although He could make such a feast whenever He chose. The workers in our institutions would do well to heed this lesson: “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” John 6:12. This is the duty of all, and those who occupy a leading position should set the example.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 5, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 5, 1895, par. 26
Thus did the Lord Jesus increase the food placed in the hands of His disciples, and they placed in the hands of the hungry multitude that which Christ distributed to them. All ate and were satisfied, and then Jesus said, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] There is to be no improvidence, no careless neglect, no waste of a morsel of food. This is a lesson as to the bestowal of spiritual gifts as well as temporal. Those who impart the grace given shall have grace for grace. Christ gives light and truth to enrich every soul who will enrich others by the gracious gifts of heaven. This is God’s plan, both in spiritual and temporal things.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 24a, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 24a, 1896, par. 23
Jesus took the five loaves and two fishes out of the hands of the lad, and, looking up to His Father He asked His blessing upon the meager supply. Then He put into the hands of the disciples the food to be distributed. The scanty provisions grew under the hand of Christ, and He had constantly a fresh supply for His servants to distribute to the hungry multitude, until all had a sufficiency. Then the word came, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] There was a surplus of food to be gathered up.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 32, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 45
There is a lesson for us in those words of Christ spoken after the feeding of the five thousand. He said, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] These words meant more than that the disciples should gather the broken pieces of bread into baskets. Jesus meant that they should mark His words, should study the Scriptures, and treasure every ray of light. Instead of searching for a knowledge of something that God had not revealed, they were carefully to gather up what He had given them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 55, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 55, 1896, par. 20
The students sent from New Zealand have had the idea that they must have money in order to be gentlemen. But had they studied deeper, they would have seen that the things which they desired would not make them Christian gentlemen. Christ was a gentleman after the divine order. He was a missionary of the highest type; He was also the greatest teacher the world ever knew in the higher education. After working a miracle to feed five thousand, besides women and children, with five loaves and two small fishes; after all wants were abundantly supplied, He said, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] The gathering up the fragments are lessons that all who follow Christ must learn. He is the express image of His Father’s person. We are estimated by the value of our perfect obedience to the Word. Those who feel poor in spirit are rich in value with God. Those who work in new fields must have the spirit of self-sacrifice. There must be a daily consecration of soul, body, and spirit to God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 200, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 200, 1897, par. 7
One thing I know: my wrestling in Australia has been as severe as any place I was ever in. Now my work is not to attend large meetings and wrestle as I have done. The publication of books is urged upon me. That, with the articles for the papers, is enough. I have so much precious matter. Light came to me, you remember, before you left for America, “Gather up the fragments. Let nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] Much matter should be before our people that they do not have, and I can use up my vitality in breasting difficulties that are not after all cured, but have to be met again and again. If I keep away from the large gatherings, I can preserve my vital energies to work where I can accomplish threefold more than meeting the peculiar attributes in the responsible ones who are leaders in our cause. May the Lord work them by His Holy Spirit. I have no more words to speak.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 123, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 123, 1898, par. 14
Those who have had means to use freely have not taken into consideration the fact that there are many people in the world who are hungry, starving. They may say, I cannot feed them all. But by studying the lessons of Christ upon economy, you can feed one, you may feed many, who are hungering for temporal food. “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] These words were spoken by One whose power wrought a miracle to create food to supply the needs of five thousand men besides women and children.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 139, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 139, 1898, par. 21
Teach your children that God has a claim upon all they possess, and that nothing can ever cancel this claim; all they have is theirs only in trust, to prove whether they will be obedient. Money is a needed treasure; let it not be lavished upon those who do not need it. Some one needs your willing gifts. Those who have had means to use freely have not taken into consideration the fact that there are many in the world who are hungry, starving. They may say, I cannot feed them all. But by practicing the lessons of Christ on economy, you can feed one. It may be that you can feed many who are hungering for temporal food. And you can feed their souls with the bread of life. “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] These words were spoken by Him whose power wrought a miracle to supply the needs of five thousand men besides women and children.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 18, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 18, 1898, par. 20
The success of the efforts made in Sydney and Melbourne gives us courage in the Lord. If these efforts had been made after all our camp meetings, as a part of the appointed plan, many more souls would have responded to the light given. If in the place of holding institutes to convert the ministers, and to fit them for the work, the ministers had been given a work to do in the places where camp meetings have been held; if after being fed with the bread of life by a miracle of God’s mercy, they were set to work to feed other souls, the directions given by the Lord would be carried out when He said, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] The ministers, after being set at work as hunters for souls, would obtain a greater experience than they would by listening to the teaching given in Ministerial Institutes.Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Importance of the Canvassing Work
GW92 346.2
Economy is needed in every department of the Lord’s work. The natural turn of youth in this age is to neglect and despise economy, and to confound it with stinginess and narrowness. But economy is consistent with the most broad and liberal views and feelings; there can be no true generosity where it is not practiced. No one should think it beneath him to study economy, and the best means of taking care of the fragments. Said Christ, after he had performed a notable miracle, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 122, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 122, 1899, par. 21
Economy. Economy is needed in every department of the Lord’s work. The natural turn of youth in this age is to neglect and despise economy, and to confound it with narrowness and stinginess. But economy is consistent with the most broad and liberal views and feelings. There can be no true liberality where it is not practiced. No one should think it beneath him to study economy and the best means of taking care of the fragments. After Christ had performed a notable miracle, He said, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” John 6:12.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 117, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 117, 1899, par. 11
The improvement of wasted moments is a treasure. When Christ fed the five thousand people with five loaves and two small fishes, He taught a lesson which the youth would do well to heed. After all had satisfied their hunger He commanded the disciples, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] The hours, the days, the weeks, the years are passing into eternity. What record are they leaving behind?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 26, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 26, 1899, par. 10
The Lord would have Brother _____ connected with the cause, if he will work patiently on these lines. My brother, you do not know yourself. You need to learn self-control from the great Teacher. You need to learn to take care of the little things, to heed the words, “Gather up the fragments.” [John 6:12.] You cannot estimate the cost incurred by not bringing the principles of the Word of God into the everyday practice. Thus the religious life is marred. Religion can only bless where it influences. It needs to be brought into every line of work.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 161, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 161, 1900, par. 3
I was surprised that the Lord has located me and my workers near the sanitarium, and so arranged matters, without one thought of our own, that we could not doubt or have any feelings but those of the greatest satisfaction that the vexed question as to where we should locate was settled. I have felt more grateful than I can express for this pleasant refuge for me in my old age. I do not feel any older than I did twenty years ago, but I do not count upon many years now, and I have a great desire to accomplish a work in preparing my writings so if I am suddenly removed, they will carry out the oft-repeated instructions to me, “Gather up the fragments; let nothing be lost.” [See John 6:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 87, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 87, 1901, par. 27
Christ said, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] Let those who act any part in our institutions heed this instruction. Let them take care that there is no waste in the spiritual and temporal supplies which the Lord provides. Economy is to be learned by the educators and taught to the helpers. And by precept and example parents should teach their children the science of making a small amount go as far as possible. Many poor families are poor because they spend their money as soon as they receive it.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 88, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 88, 1901, par. 7
The one who holds the position as cook has a most responsible place. He should be trained to habits of economy and should realize that no food is to be wasted. Christ said, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] Let those who are engaged in any department heed this instruction. Economy is to be learned by the educators and taught to the helpers not only by precept, but by example.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 113, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, par. 25
After feeding the five thousand, Christ said to the disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 67, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, par. 17
Learn the lesson which Christ gave after the miracle of feeding the five thousand. “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] The Lord is constantly exercising His miracle-working power in helping parents as they strive to lead their children to Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 105, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 105, 1901, par. 9
Great skill is required to conduct a sanitarium in such a way that the expenses will be met. So many of those employed as helpers have never learned the principles of economy. They do not know the meaning of Christ’s words, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] Often enough is wasted in a year to support a family for that length of time.Manual for Canvassers
Economy
MC 57.2
Economy is needed in every department of the Lord’s work. The natural turn of youth in this age is to neglect and despise economy, and to confound it with narrowness and stinginess. But economy is consistent with the most broad and liberal views and feelings. Where it is not practised, there can be no true liberality. No one should think it beneath him to study the best means of saving the fragments. After Christ had performed a notable miracle, He said, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” John 6:12.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 27, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 27, 1902, par. 7
Money is a needed treasure; let it not be lavished on those who do not need it. Some one needs your willing gifts. Too often those who have means fail to consider how many in the world are hungry, starving for food. They may say, “I cannot feed them all.” But by practicing Christ’s lessons on economy, you can feed one. It may be that you can feed many who are hungering for temporal food. And you can feed their souls with the bread of life. “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] These words were spoken by Him who had all the resources of the universe at His command; by His miracle-working power He supplied thousands with food, but He did not disdain to teach a lesson in economy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 16, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 16, 1902, par. 22
There should be one hundred laborers in the field where now there is one. Much more could be done to advance the work if all would heed the lesson Christ has given in economy. After miraculously feeding the five thousand, He said, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] These words will confront every one who has lavished on self the money entrusted to him by the Lord for the blessing of humanity. He who regards his brother as beneath his notice because he is poor, and who uses the Lord’s goods to gratify his selfish desires, is robbing God and ruining his own soul.17LtMs, Ms 16, 1902, par. 23
After the multitude had been fed, there was an abundance of food left. And He who had all the resources of infinite power at His command, whose power is limitless, whose bounty cannot be measured, gave thought to the broken fragments, the remains of the feast. “Gather up the fragments that remain,” He said, “that nothing be lost.” [Verse 12.] The fragments were as great an evidence of His power as was the food that had satisfied the hunger of the multitude.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 7, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 7, 1902, par. 1
In carrying on the different lines of work, those laboring in our institutions should reach a high standard. Many have consumers and not producers. Let all realize the necessity of studying to economize. But if economy is not practiced by saving the pence, unnecessary losses will be sustained, and debts will accumulate. Christ’s instruction, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost,” sounds down along the line to us in this time. [John 6:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 142, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 142, 1903, par. 133
There should be one hundred laborers in the field where now there is one. Much more could be done to advance the work if all would heed the lesson Christ has given in economy. After miraculously feeding the five thousand, He said, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] These words will confront every one who has lavished on self the money entrusted to him by the Lord for the blessing of humanity. He who regards his brother as beneath his notice because he is poor, and who uses the Lord’s goods to gratify his selfish desires, is robbing God and ruining his own soul.18LtMs, Ms 142, 1903, par. 134
After the multitude had been fed, there was an abundance of food left. And He who had all the resources of infinite power at His command, whose power is limitless, whose bounty cannot be measured, gave thought to the broken fragments, the remains of the feast. “Gather up the fragments that remain,” He said, “that nothing be lost.” [Verse 12.] The fragments were as great an evidence of His power as was the food that had satisfied the hunger of the multitude.Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]
MR No. 901—Gather Up the Fragments
11MR 270.1
One thing I know—my wrestling in Australia has been as severe as any place I was ever in. Now my work is not to attend large meetings and wrestle as I have done. The publication of books is urged upon me. That, with the articles for the papers, is enough. I have so much precious matter. Light came to me, you remember, before you left for America, “Gather up the fragments. Let nothing be lost.” [See John 6:12.].—Letter 200, 1897, p. 3. (To W. C. White, November 25, 1897.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 177, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 177, 1903, par. 6
All need now to be faithful with God, gathering up the fragments, that nothing be lost. He calls for diligent, faithful service. There must be no lack of economy; every penny should be carefully treasured. We are to remember the lesson that Christ gave to His disciples after He had fed the multitude with five loaves and two fishes. Every one had been satisfied, and then Christ said to the disciples, “Gather up the fragments; that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 182, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 182, 1907, par. 23
He asked the blessing upon the food and is accumulated, and after they were all satisfied, He said to them, “Gather up the fragments, let nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] And they gathered up the fragments. Now, there is a great thing in this. We have not a right, any of us in any case to gamble. We haven’t a right in any case to obtain means that will rob another of means by conniving, not a bit of it. We must be in that position where we shall feel we have a right to impart that which God has given us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 73, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 21
When the people were satisfied, the Saviour gave the command to his disciples, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] Here Christ taught a precious lesson, one that was to come clear down through the ages to our time. There is an economy that Christ wants each to weave into our experience. There are wants and necessities on every hand to be supplied; there are needy and suffering ones to help. When we stand in right relation to God, we will stand in right relation to the principles of economy. We will know by experience what it means to deny self. We will be willing to sacrifice for the sake of others.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 75, 1910
25LtMs, Ms 75, 1910, par. 14
We will have trials before us that you have never dreamed of, but what we need to know is whether Christ is worthy to be served. When on earth He went from place to place on foot until He gathered a company of some five thousand about Him. Then when they came to a nice grassy plot of ground, He commanded that they sit down. He asked His disciples how much food they had. “Five loaves, and a few fishes,” they said. [Mark 6:38.] <“Bring them on.”> They brought them out, <the blessing was asked of God upon the food>, and He gave each a small parcel, and this amount fed the five thousand souls. Then He said, “Gather up the fragments.” [John 6:12.] And they gathered up twelve baskets full of fragments. <Here was a miracle.>Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 71, 1911
25LtMs, Ms 71, 1911, par. 5
When they are in that position, you may depend that there will be, in the church where they are, faithful work done. They will hunt for souls not only in the church, but out of the church. They will be working for Christ in Christ’s order. He went about traveling on foot, and as He went, He was giving the word and His light, and His life, as it were, He was giving to the people. Finally they became hungry, and He said to His disciples, Have ye any food? They answered that they had a few loaves of bread and a few fishes, but what are they, said they, among so many? Bring them along, said Christ. So they brought them along, and Christ blessed the food; then He put it into the hands of the disciples to distribute to the five thousand people who were following. That little morsel was increased as it was distributed, and they all had all that they desired. And then what was the astonishment to hear the word, “Gather up the fragments; let nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] And they gathered up basketsful of food.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6
Chapter 56—Help for Mission Fields
6T 451.3
Money is a needed treasure; let it not be lavished upon those who do not need it. Someone needs your willing gifts. Too often those who have means fail to consider how many in the world are hungry, starving for food. They may say: “I cannot feed them all.” But by practicing Christ’s lessons on economy you can feed one. It may be that you can feed many who are hungering for temporal food. And you can feed their souls with the bread of life. “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” John 6:12. These words were spoken by Him who had all the resources of the universe at His command; while His miracle-working power supplied thousands with food, He did not disdain to teach a lesson in economy.This Day With God
As the Stars Forever and Ever, August 8
TDG 229.4
All need now to be faithful with God, gathering up the fragments, that nothing be lost. He calls for diligent, faithful service. There must be no lack of economy; every penny should be carefully treasured. We are to remember the lesson that Christ gave to His disciples after He had fed the multitude with five loaves and two fishes. Everyone had been satisfied, and then Christ said to the disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost” (John 6:12).This Day With God
Gather Up the Fragments, December 20
TDG 363.1
Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. John 6:12.John 6:12-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 47, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 47, 1894, par. 3
The multitude was fed by the five barley loaves, and every one had a sufficiency; their hunger was perfectly satisfied. How surprised they were to hear the voice of the great Teacher say, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost,” and there were twelve baskets full gathered up. [John 6:12, 13.] All this the people rehearsed over and over again to friends and relatives and acquaintances. There was in it a hidden meaning which they did not then discern; it had a lesson for His disciples. The Lord would place in the hands of His delegated servants the Bread of Life to be given to the multitude. The Jewish religion was one of exclusiveness; they built up the partition walls as high as possible between themselves and the world. They would not accept the words of Christ, that there is no respect of persons with God, although the prophets had borne to them this testimony for centuries. They thought that God loved the Jew only and hated the Gentile. This error Christ was seeking to correct.9LtMs, Ms 47, 1894, par. 6
“Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.]9LtMs, Ms 47, 1894, par. 9
The Lord requires that His servants shall manifest their faith by their works. “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [Verse 12.] Let the reasons of our faith which have been presented to the people in clear lines, be furnished them in printed form, so that they can read what the minister has said and give it to their friends. Let these publications be widely scattered. Truth has been strangely perverted; all evil influences are at work, and we must work with persevering, determined effort, for “we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” [Ephesians 6:12.] Then “quit you like men, be strong.” [1 Corinthians 16:13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 27, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 27, 1902, par. 19
The food business is to be made the subject of earnest prayer. Let the people ask God for wisdom to prepare wholesome foods. He who fed the five thousand with five loaves and two small fishes will supply the needs of His children today. After Christ had performed this wonderful miracle, He gave a lesson on economy. After the hunger of the multitude had been satisfied, He said, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” “And they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full.” [John 6:12, 13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 101, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 101, 1908, par. 6
Christ came as the representative of the Father, and the works of the Father He was constantly doing. Had not the disciples for three years been beholding these works? Had they not seen the sick brought to Him to receive healing, and had He not restored them to health? The needy of all classes had flocked to Him in crowds, and He had ministered to all. They had seen Him feed a multitude with a few small loaves and fishes; and as the food was passed from hand to hand, they had watched it multiply until there was more than enough for all. After five thousand men besides women and children had been fed, the Saviour gave the command, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost;” and they gathered up of that which was left twelve baskets full. [John 6:12, 13.]John 6:12-37
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 5, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, par. 6
This is the One who says to us today, “Him that cometh to me, I will in no wise cast out.” [John 6:37.] Then cling to the mighty One. Do not, I beseech you, dishonor your Redeemer by turning from Him to seek help from human beings. Help those who are weak in faith by showing firm confidence in God. Do not encourage these souls to lean on any human prop. Do not insult the Saviour by turning from His promises, from the fullness of His love and assurance, to human resources. Trace not a word of doubt in the One who loves you, whose you are by creation and by redemption. Go not for help to those who are just as dependent as you. Christ has declared, “Without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] Christians, is not this promise of value? Had there been a surer way of finding rest, would not the Lord have pointed it out to His weary, fainting children? But He has told us of no way in which to find rest except by wearing His yoke. “Take my yoke upon you,” He says, “and learn of me, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” And the dear Saviour adds, “My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Verses 29, 30.]16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, par. 7
I wish to say to my friends here and in foreign countries, Do not waste time and money by writing to your friends for something with which to satisfy your soul-hunger. Christ says, “I am the bread of life.” [John 6:35.]16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, par. 8
Read the record of how the Saviour fed the multitude with five loaves and two fishes. He took the bread, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to His disciples, bidding them distribute it among the people. The food taken from the hands of the Saviour was given to the people till all were satisfied. Then the command was given, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [Verse 12.]16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, par. 14
“The day following, when the people which stood on the other side of the sea saw that there was none other boat there, save that one whereinto the disciples were entered, and that Jesus went not with his disciples into the boat, but that his disciples were gone away alone, ... they also took shipping, and came to Capernaum, seeking for Jesus. And when they had found him on the other side of the sea, they said unto him, Rabbi, when camest thou hither? Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves and were filled. Labor not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you; for him hath God the Father sealed. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.” [John 6:22, 24-29.]16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, par. 15
“They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.” [Verses 30, 31.] Christ understood that the people sought Him because they wished Him to provide for them that which would sustain physical life, and He said to them, “Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life; he that cometh to me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” [Verses 32-35.]John 6:12-63
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 107, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 107, 1897, par. 4
Christ’s words have a value far beyond that which a casual reading reveals. His sayings are worthy of the closest study. “The words that I speak unto you,” He declared, “they are spirit and they are life.” [John 6:63.] These words, falling from the lips of Christ with divine authority, were to the disciples as a new revelation. They were not new, but it seemed so to the disciples, because their eyes were opened to behold wonderful things in the Scriptures.12LtMs, Ms 107, 1897, par. 7
But “Show us a sign” was the cry of the scribes and Pharisees. [Matthew 12:38.] Even after Christ had fed the multitude with five loaves and two fishes, they came to Him with this demand. On this occasion, after the hunger of all had been satisfied, Christ had said, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] And they gathered up twelve baskets. This miracle was sufficient evidence, but the priests had closed their eyes to the light.John 6:14
Jesus, Name Above All Names
Prophet of Galilee, October 8
JNN 297.1
“This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world.”—John 6:14John 6:14-15
God’s Amazing Grace
The Kingdom Threatened, February 7
AG 46.1
When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone. John 6:15.AG 46.2
Seated upon the grassy plain, in the twilight of the spring evening, the people ate of the food that Christ had provided.... No human power could create from five barley loaves and two small fishes food sufficient to feed thousands of hungry people. And they said one to another, “This is of a truth that Prophet that should come into the world” (John 6:14).... He can conquer the nations, and give to Israel the long-sought dominion.John 6:14-21
The Desire of Ages
Chapter 40—A Night on the Lake
DA 377.1
Seated upon the grassy plain, in the twilight of the spring evening, the people ate of the food that Christ had provided. The words they had heard that day had come to them as the voice of God. The works of healing they had witnessed were such as only divine power could perform. But the miracle of the loaves appealed to everyone in that vast multitude. All were sharers in its benefit. In the days of Moses, God had fed Israel with manna in the desert; and who was this that had fed them that day but He whom Moses had foretold? No human power could create from five barley loaves and two small fishes food sufficient to feed thousands of hungry people. And they said one to another, “This is of a truth that Prophet that should come into the world.”DA 377.2
All day the conviction has strengthened. That crowning act is assurance that the long-looked-for Deliverer is among them. The hopes of the people rise higher and higher. This is He who will make Judea an earthly paradise, a land flowing with milk and honey. He can satisfy every desire. He can break the power of the hated Romans. He can deliver Judah and Jerusalem. He can heal the soldiers who are wounded in battle. He can supply whole armies with food. He can conquer the nations, and give to Israel the long-sought dominion.DA 378.1
In their enthusiasm the people are ready at once to crown Him king. They see that He makes no effort to attract attention or secure honor to Himself. In this He is essentially different from the priests and rulers, and they fear that He will never urge His claim to David’s throne. Consulting together, they agree to take Him by force, and proclaim Him the king of Israel. The disciples unite with the multitude in declaring the throne of David the rightful inheritance of their Master. It is the modesty of Christ, they say, that causes Him to refuse such honor. Let the people exalt their Deliverer. Let the arrogant priests and rulers be forced to honor Him who comes clothed with the authority of God.DA 378.2
They eagerly arrange to carry out their purpose; but Jesus sees what is on foot, and understands, as they cannot, what would be the result of such a movement. Even now the priests and rulers are hunting His life. They accuse Him of drawing the people away from them. Violence and insurrection would follow an effort to place Him on the throne, and the work of the spiritual kingdom would be hindered. Without delay the movement must be checked. Calling His disciples, Jesus bids them take the boat and return at once to Capernaum, leaving Him to dismiss the people.DA 378.3
Never before had a command from Christ seemed so impossible of fulfillment. The disciples had long hoped for a popular movement to place Jesus on the throne; they could not endure the thought that all this enthusiasm should come to nothing. The multitudes that were assembling to keep the Passover were anxious to see the new prophet. To His followers this seemed the golden opportunity to establish their beloved Master on the throne of Israel. In the glow of this new ambition it was hard for them to go away by themselves, and leave Jesus alone upon that desolate shore. They protested against the arrangement; but Jesus now spoke with an authority He had never before assumed toward them. They knew that further opposition on their part would be useless, and in silence they turned toward the sea.DA 378.4
Jesus now commands the multitude to disperse; and His manner is so decisive that they dare not disobey. The words of praise and exaltation die on their lips. In the very act of advancing to seize Him their steps are stayed, and the glad, eager look fades from their countenances. In that throng are men of strong mind and firm determination; but the kingly bearing of Jesus, and His few quiet words of command, quell the tumult, and frustrate their designs. They recognize in Him a power above all earthly authority, and without a question they submit.DA 379.1
When left alone, Jesus “went up into a mountain apart to pray.” For hours He continued pleading with God. Not for Himself but for men were those prayers. He prayed for power to reveal to men the divine character of His mission, that Satan might not blind their understanding and pervert their judgment. The Saviour knew that His days of personal ministry on earth were nearly ended, and that few would receive Him as their Redeemer. In travail and conflict of soul He prayed for His disciples. They were to be grievously tried. Their long-cherished hopes, based on a popular delusion, were to be disappointed in a most painful and humiliating manner. In the place of His exaltation to the throne of David they were to witness His crucifixion. This was to be indeed His true coronation. But they did not discern this, and in consequence strong temptations would come to them, which it would be difficult for them to recognize as temptations. Without the Holy Spirit to enlighten the mind and enlarge the comprehension the faith of the disciples would fail. It was painful to Jesus that their conceptions of His kingdom were, to so great a degree, limited to worldly aggrandizement and honor. For them the burden was heavy upon His heart, and He poured out His supplications with bitter agony and tears.DA 379.2
The disciples had not put off immediately from the land, as Jesus directed them. They waited for a time, hoping that He would come to them. But as they saw that darkness was fast gathering, they “entered into a ship, and went over the sea toward Capernaum.” They had left Jesus with dissatisfied hearts, more impatient with Him than ever before since acknowledging Him as their Lord. They murmured because they had not been permitted to proclaim Him king. They blamed themselves for yielding so readily to His command. They reasoned that if they had been more persistent they might have accomplished their purpose.DA 380.1
Unbelief was taking possession of their minds and hearts. Love of honor had blinded them. They knew that Jesus was hated by the Pharisees, and they were eager to see Him exalted as they thought He should be. To be united with a teacher who could work mighty miracles, and yet to be reviled as deceivers, was a trial they could ill endure. Were they always to be accounted followers of a false prophet? Would Christ never assert His authority as king? Why did not He who possessed such power reveal Himself in His true character, and make their way less painful? Why had He not saved John the Baptist from a violent death? Thus the disciples reasoned until they brought upon themselves great spiritual darkness. They questioned, Could Jesus be an impostor, as the Pharisees asserted?DA 380.2
The disciples had that day witnessed the wonderful works of Christ. It had seemed that heaven had come down to the earth. The memory of that precious, glorious day should have filled them with faith and hope. Had they, out of the abundance of their hearts, been conversing together in regard to these things, they would not have entered into temptation. But their disappointment had absorbed their thoughts. The words of Christ, “Gather up the fragments, ... that nothing be lost,” were unheeded. Those were hours of large blessing to the disciples, but they had forgotten it all. They were in the midst of troubled waters. Their thoughts were stormy and unreasonable, and the Lord gave them something else to afflict their souls and occupy their minds. God often does this when men create burdens and troubles for themselves. The disciples had no need to make trouble. Already danger was fast approaching.DA 380.3
A violent tempest had been stealing upon them, and they were unprepared for it. It was a sudden contrast, for the day had been perfect; and when the gale struck them, they were afraid. They forgot their disaffection, their unbelief, their impatience. Everyone worked to keep the boat from sinking. It was but a short distance by sea from Bethsaida to the point where they expected to meet Jesus, and in ordinary weather the journey required but a few hours; but now they were driven farther and farther from the point they sought. Until the fourth watch of the night they toiled at the oars. Then the weary men gave themselves up for lost. In storm and darkness the sea had taught them their own helplessness, and they longed for the presence of their Master.DA 381.1
Jesus had not forgotten them. The Watcher on the shore saw those fear-stricken men battling with the tempest. Not for a moment did He lose sight of His disciples. With deepest solicitude His eyes followed the storm-tossed boat with its precious burden; for these men were to be the light of the world. As a mother in tender love watches her child, so the compassionate Master watched His disciples. When their hearts were subdued, their unholy ambition quelled, and in humility they prayed for help, it was given them.DA 381.2
At the moment when they believe themselves lost, a gleam of light reveals a mysterious figure approaching them upon the water. But they know not that it is Jesus. The One who has come for their help they count as an enemy. Terror overpowers them. The hands that have grasped the oars with muscles like iron let go their hold. The boat rocks at the will of the waves; all eyes are riveted on this vision of a man walking upon the white-capped billows of the foaming sea.DA 381.3
They think it a phantom that omens their destruction, and they cry out for fear. Jesus advances as if He would pass them; but they recognize Him, and cry out, entreating His help. Their beloved Master turns, His voice silences their fear, “Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid.”DA 381.4
As soon as they could credit the wondrous fact, Peter was almost beside himself with joy. As if he could scarcely yet believe, he cried out, “Lord, if it be Thou, bid me come unto Thee on the water. And He said, Come.”DA 381.5
Looking unto Jesus, Peter walks securely; but as in self-satisfaction he glances back toward his companions in the boat, his eyes are turned from the Saviour. The wind is boisterous. The waves roll high, and come directly between him and the Master; and he is afraid. For a moment Christ is hidden from his view, and his faith gives way. He begins to sink. But while the billows talk with death, Peter lifts his eyes from the angry waters, and fixing them upon Jesus, cries, “Lord, save me.” Immediately Jesus grasps the outstretched hand, saying, “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?”DA 381.6
Walking side by side, Peter’s hand in that of his Master, they stepped into the boat together. But Peter was now subdued and silent. He had no reason to boast over his fellows, for through unbelief and self-exaltation he had very nearly lost his life. When he turned his eyes from Jesus, his footing was lost, and he sank amid the waves.DA 382.1
When trouble comes upon us, how often we are like Peter! We look upon the waves, instead of keeping our eyes fixed upon the Saviour. Our footsteps slide, and the proud waters go over our souls. Jesus did not bid Peter come to Him that he should perish; He does not call us to follow Him, and then forsake us. “Fear not,” He says; “for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art Mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour.” Isaiah 43:1-3.DA 382.2
Jesus read the character of His disciples. He knew how sorely their faith was to be tried. In this incident on the sea He desired to reveal to Peter his own weakness,—to show that his safety was in constant dependence upon divine power. Amid the storms of temptation he could walk safely only as in utter self-distrust he should rely upon the Saviour. It was on the point where he thought himself strong that Peter was weak; and not until he discerned his weakness could he realize his need of dependence upon Christ. Had he learned the lesson that Jesus sought to teach him in that experience on the sea, he would not have failed when the great test came upon him.DA 382.3
Day by day God instructs His children. By the circumstances of the daily life He is preparing them to act their part upon that wider stage to which His providence has appointed them. It is the issue of the daily test that determines their victory or defeat in life’s great crisis.DA 382.4
Those who fail to realize their constant dependence upon God will be overcome by temptation. We may now suppose that our feet stand secure, and that we shall never be moved. We may say with confidence, “I know in whom I have believed; nothing can shake my faith in God and in His word.” But Satan is planning to take advantage of our hereditary and cultivated traits of character, and to blind our eyes to our own necessities and defects. Only through realizing our own weakness and looking steadfastly unto Jesus can we walk securely.DA 382.5
No sooner had Jesus taken His place in the boat than the wind ceased, “and immediately the ship was at the land whither they went.” The night of horror was succeeded by the light of dawn. The disciples, and others who also were on board, bowed at the feet of Jesus with thankful hearts, saying, “Of a truth Thou art the Son of God!”From Heaven With Love
Chapter 40—A Night on the Lake
HLv 249.1
Seated on the grassy plain in the twilight of the spring evening, the people ate the food Christ provided. The miracle of the loaves appealed to everyone in that vast multitude. God had fed Israel with manna in the desert, and who was this that had fed them that day but He whom Moses had foretold? They said one to another, “This is of a truth the Prophet that should come into the world.”HLv 249.2
That crowning act was assurance that the long-looked-for Deliverer was among them. This was He who would make Judea an earthly paradise, a land flowing with milk and honey. He could break the power of the hated Romans. He could heal the soldiers wounded in battle. He could supply whole armies with food. He could give to Israel the long-sought dominion!HLv 249.3
The people were ready at once to crown Him king. They saw that He made no effort to secure honor to Himself, and they feared He would never urge His claim to David’s throne. Consulting together, they agreed to take Him by force and proclaim Him the king of Israel. The disciples united with the multitude in declaring the throne of David the rightful inheritance of their Master. Let the arrogant priests and rulers be forced to honor Him who came clothed with the authority of God.HLv 249.4
But Jesus saw what was on foot. Violence and insurrection would follow, and the work of the spiritual kingdom would be hindered. Without delay the movement must be checked. Calling His disciples, Jesus bade them take the boat and return at once to Capernaum, leaving Him to dismiss the people.HLv 250.1
Never before had a command from Christ seemed so impossible. This seemed the golden opportunity to establish their beloved Master on the throne of Israel. It was hard for them to go away by themselves and leave Jesus alone on that desolate shore. They protested, but Jesus now spoke with an authority He had never before assumed toward them. In silence they turned toward the sea.HLv 250.2
Jesus now commanded the multitude to disperse, and His manner was so decisive that they dared not disobey. In the very act of advancing to seize Him, their steps were stayed. The kingly bearing of Jesus and His few quiet words of command frustrated their designs. They recognized in Him a power above all earthly authority, and without question they submitted.HLv 250.3
Left alone, Jesus “went up into a mountain apart to pray.” For hours He prayed for power to reveal to men the divine character of His mission, that Satan might not blind their understanding and pervert their judgment. He knew that His days on earth were nearly ended, and that few would receive Him. His disciples were to be grievously tried, their long-cherished hopes disappointed. In place of His exaltation to the throne of David, they were to witness His crucifixion. This was to be indeed His true coronation; but they did not discern this, and without the Holy Spirit the faith of the disciples would fail. For them He poured out His supplications with bitter agony and tears.HLv 250.4
The disciples had not put off immediately from land, hoping that Jesus would come. But as darkness was fast gathering, they “entered into a ship, and went over the sea toward Capernaum.” They murmured because they had not been permitted to proclaim Him king. They blamed themselves; if they had been more persistent, they might have accomplished their purpose.HLv 251.1
Unbelief was taking possession of their minds and hearts. Love of honor had blinded them. They were eager to see Jesus exalted as they thought He should be. Were they always to be accounted followers of a false prophet? Why did not He who possessed such power reveal Himself in His true character, and make their way less painful? Why had He not saved John the Baptist from a violent death? Thus the disciples reasoned until they brought on themselves great spiritual darkness. They questioned, Could Jesus be an impostor, as the Pharisees asserted?HLv 251.2
The memory of that precious, glorious day should have filled them with faith and hope, but they had forgotten it all. Their thoughts were stormy and unreasonable, and the Lord gave them something else to afflict their souls and occupy their minds. God often does this when men create burdens and troubles for themselves. The disciples had no need to make trouble. Already danger was fast approaching.HLv 251.3
A violent tempest had been stealing upon them, and they were unprepared for it. It was a sudden contrast, and when the gale struck they were afraid. They forgot their disaffection, unbelief, and impatience. Everyone worked to keep the boat from sinking. In ordinary weather the journey required but a few hours; but now they were driven farther from the point they sought. Until the fourth watch of the night they toiled at the oars. Then the weary men gave themselves up for lost. Helpless, they longed for the presence of their Master.HLv 251.4
The Watcher on the shore saw those fear-stricken men battling with the tempest. With deepest solicitude His eyes followed the storm-tossed boat with its precious burden; for these men were to be the light of the world. When their hearts were subdued, their unholy ambition quelled, and in humility they prayed for help, it was given them.HLv 251.5
At the moment when they believed themselves lost, a gleam of light revealed a mysterious figure approaching on the water. But the One who had come for their help, they counted as an enemy. Terror overpowered them. Hands that had grasped the oars with muscles like iron let go. The boat rocked at the will of the waves; all eyes were riveted on this vision of a man walking on the white-capped billows of the foaming sea.HLv 252.1
They thought it a phantom that omened their destruction, and they cried out for fear. Jesus advanced as if He would pass them, but they recognized Him and entreated His help. His voice silenced their fear, “It is I; be not afraid.”HLv 252.2
As soon as they could credit the wondrous fact, Peter cried out, “Lord, if it be Thou, bid me come unto Thee on the water. And He said, Come.”HLv 252.3
Looking unto Jesus, Peter walked securely; but as he glanced back toward his companions in the boat, his eyes were turned from the Saviour. The waves rolled high and he was afraid. For a moment Christ was hidden from view, and his faith gave way. He began to sink. But while the billows talked with death, Peter lifted his eyes from the angry waters, and cried, “Lord, save me.” Jesus grasped the outstretched hand, saying, “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?”HLv 252.4
Walking side by side, Peter’s hand in that of his Master, they stepped into the boat together. Peter was now subdued and silent. Through unbelief and self-exaltation he had nearly lost his life.HLv 252.5
When trouble comes, how often we look on the waves, instead of keeping our eyes on the Saviour! The proud waters go over our souls. Jesus does not call us to follow Him and then forsake us. “Fear not,” He says. “When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee... . I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour.” Isaiah 43:1-3.HLv 253.1
In this incident on the sea Jesus desired to reveal to Peter that his safety was in constant dependence on divine power. Amid the storms of temptation he could walk safely only as he should rely on the Saviour. Where he thought himself strong, Peter was weak. Had he learned the lesson in that experience on the sea, he would not have failed when the great test came upon him.HLv 253.2
Day by day God instructs His children. By the circumstances of daily life He is preparing them to act their part upon that wider stage to which His providence has appointed them. We may now suppose that our feet stand secure, and that we shall never be moved. We may say with confidence, Nothing can shake my faith in God and in His Word. But Satan is planning to take advantage of our hereditary and cultivated defects. Only through realizing our own weakness and looking steadfastly to Jesus can we walk securely.HLv 253.3
No sooner had Jesus taken His place in the boat than the wind ceased, “and immediately the ship was at the land whither they went.” The disciples and others on board bowed at the feet of Jesus with thankful hearts, saying “Of a truth Thou art the Son of God!”John 6:14-63
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 47, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 47, 1891, par. 17
Jesus was tempted on this point again and again. On the occasion of feeding five thousand from five loaves and two fishes, all were satisfied and refreshed and twelve baskets full of fragments were taken up. The responsible men were filled with great desire to voice the sentiments and enthusiasm of the people, framing into words their ambitions, hopes and purposes—“This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world.” John 6:14.7LtMs, Lt 47, 1891, par. 21
It was here that Satan found access to many minds, and the hopes of the disciples were disappointed. When He met them again He gave them the most precious lessons on the truth. [Read] (John 6:22) to the close of the chapter. He announced Himself to be the Bread of Life. “Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 6:53, 54. “He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.” John 6:56.7LtMs, Lt 47, 1891, par. 22
(Verse 63), He explains, “It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.”John 6:14-71
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 106, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 4
Jesus had fed with five loaves of bread and two small fishes a multitude. “Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world. When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take Him by force, to make Him a king, He departed again into a mountain Himself alone.” [John 6:14, 15.]20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 6
“And when even was now come His disciples went down unto the sea, and entered into a ship, and went over the sea toward Capernaum. And it was now dark, and Jesus was not come to them. And the sea arose, by reason of a great wind that blew.” [Verses 16-18.]20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 7
The disciples gave themselves up for lost. But Jesus had not forgotten them. At the moment when they believed themselves to be lost, a gleam of light revealed a mysterious figure approaching them upon the water. Terror overpowered them, and they cried out in their fear. But the voice of their beloved Master came to them, “It is I, be not afraid. Then they willingly received Him into the ship, and immediately the ship was at the land whither they went.” [Verses 20, 21.] This incident served to reassure the disciples that though He had refused the honor of an earthly kingdom, yet Jesus was indeed the Son of God.20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 8
In the morning the people sought to find Jesus. They came to the place where He had taught them, and when they “saw that Jesus was not there, neither His disciples, they also took shipping and came to Capernaum, seeking for Jesus. And when they had found Him on the other side of the sea, they said unto Him, Rabbi, when camest Thou hither? Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily I say unto you, Ye seek Me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. Labor not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for Him hath God the Father sealed. Then said they unto Him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent.” [Verses 24-29.]20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 9
The price of heaven for every soul is the Messiah. The way to heaven is through faith in the “Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] He asks us first to believe, then to obey His commandments. “This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent.” [John 6:29.]20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 10
Then “they said therefore unto Him, What sign showest Thou then that we may see and believe Thee? What dost Thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the desert, as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat. Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but My Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.” [Verses 30-33.]20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 11
In the time of Moses the children had received bread from heaven. For forty years they had received a daily supply of manna in their wilderness wanderings. Christ had miraculously fed the multitude the day previous, and, thinking of temporal food, His hearers exclaimed, “Lord, evermore give us this bread.” [Verse 34.]20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 13
“The Jews then murmured at Him, because He said, I am the bread which came down from heaven. And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How is it then that He said, I came down from heaven? Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Murmur not among yourselves. No man can come to Me, except the Father which hath sent Me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.” [Verses 35-44.]20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 14
Jesus seeks to explain the difficulty of their receiving the truth. A man must be taught of God in order to understand deep spiritual truths. Without the wisdom that comes from God, men are led into error through wrong interpretations of His Word. The Lord is our Teacher. He, the sent of God, declares: “It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto Me. Not that any man hath seen the Father, save He which is of God, He hath seen the Father. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on Me hath everlasting life.” [Verses 45-47.] This is the highest science that any human being can study.20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 20
“When Jesus knew in Himself that His disciples murmured at it, He said unto them, Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where He was before?” [Verses 61, 62.]20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 22
“It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life.” [Verse 63.]20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 24
“The flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life.” [Verse 63.] Those who thus accept the words of Christ will represent His character. The world will see in them a character fashioned after the divine similitude.20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 26
“From that time many of His disciples went back, and walked no more with Him. Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Then Simon Peter answered Him, Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that Thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil? He spake of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon; for he it was that should betray Him, being one of the twelve.” [Verses 66-71.]20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 18
“Many therefore of His disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying, who can hear it? When Jesus knew in Himself that His disciples murmured at it, He said unto them, Doth this offend you?” [Verses 48-61.]John 6:22-71
The Desire of Ages
Chapter 41—The Crisis in Galilee
DA 383.1
When Christ forbade the people to declare Him king, He knew that a turning point in His history was reached. Multitudes who desired to exalt Him to the throne today would turn from Him tomorrow. The disappointment of their selfish ambition would turn their love to hatred, and their praise to curses. Yet knowing this, He took no measures to avert the crisis. From the first He had held out to His followers no hope of earthly rewards. To one who came desiring to become His disciple He had said, “The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay His head.” Matthew 8:20. If men could have had the world with Christ, multitudes would have proffered Him their allegiance; but such service He could not accept. Of those now connected with Him there were many who had been attracted by the hope of a worldly kingdom. These must be undeceived. The deep spiritual teaching in the miracle of the loaves had not been comprehended. This was to be made plain. And this new revelation would bring with it a closer test.DA 383.2
The miracle of the loaves was reported far and near, and very early next morning the people flocked to Bethsaida to see Jesus. They came in great numbers, by land and sea. Those who had left Him the preceding night returned, expecting to find Him still there; for there had been no boat by which He could pass to the other side. But their search was fruitless, and many repaired to Capernaum, still seeking Him.DA 384.1
Meanwhile He had arrived at Gennesaret, after an absence of but one day. As soon as it was known that He had landed, the people “ran through that whole region round about, and began to carry about in beds those that were sick, where they heard He was.” Mark 6:55.DA 384.2
After a time He went to the synagogue, and there those who had come from Bethsaida found Him. They learned from His disciples how He had crossed the sea. The fury of the storm, and the many hours of fruitless rowing against adverse winds, the appearance of Christ walking upon the water, the fears thus aroused, His reassuring words, the adventure of Peter and its result, with the sudden stilling of the tempest and landing of the boat, were all faithfully recounted to the wondering crowd. Not content with this, however, many gathered about Jesus, questioning, “Rabbi, when camest Thou hither?” They hoped to receive from His own lips a further account of the miracle.DA 384.3
Jesus did not gratify their curiosity. He sadly said, “Ye seek Me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.” They did not seek Him from any worthy motive; but as they had been fed with the loaves, they hoped still to receive temporal benefit by attaching themselves to Him. The Saviour bade them, “Labor not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life.” Seek not merely for material benefit. Let it not be the chief effort to provide for the life that now is, but seek for spiritual food, even that wisdom which will endure unto everlasting life. This the Son of God alone can give; “for Him hath God the Father sealed.”DA 385.1
For the moment the interest of the hearers was awakened. They exclaimed, “What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?” They had been performing many and burdensome works in order to recommend themselves to God; and they were ready to hear of any new observance by which they could secure greater merit. Their question meant, What shall we do that we may deserve heaven? What is the price we are required to pay in order to obtain the life to come?DA 385.2
“Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent.” The price of heaven is Jesus. The way to heaven is through faith in “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1:29.DA 385.3
But the people did not choose to receive this statement of divine truth. Jesus had done the very work which prophecy had foretold that the Messiah would do; but they had not witnessed what their selfish hopes had pictured as His work. Christ had indeed once fed the multitude with barley loaves; but in the days of Moses Israel had been fed with manna forty years, and far greater blessings were expected from the Messiah. Their dissatisfied hearts queried why, if Jesus could perform so many wondrous works as they had witnessed, could He not give health, strength, and riches to all His people, free them from their oppressors, and exalt them to power and honor? The fact that He claimed to be the Sent of God, and yet refused to be Israel’s king, was a mystery which they could not fathom. His refusal was misinterpreted. Many concluded that He dared not assert His claims because He Himself doubted as to the divine character of His mission. Thus they opened their hearts to unbelief, and the seed which Satan had sown bore fruit of its kind, in misunderstanding and defection.DA 385.4
Now, half mockingly, a rabbi questioned, “What sign showest Thou then, that we may see, and believe Thee? what dost Thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.”DA 385.5
The Jews honored Moses as the giver of the manna, ascribing praise to the instrument, and losing sight of Him by whom the work had been accomplished. Their fathers had murmured against Moses, and had doubted and denied his divine mission. Now in the same spirit the children rejected the One who bore the message of God to themselves. “Then said Jesus unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven.” The giver of the manna was standing among them. It was Christ Himself who had led the Hebrews through the wilderness, and had daily fed them with the bread from heaven. That food was a type of the real bread from heaven. The life-giving Spirit, flowing from the infinite fullness of God, is the true manna. Jesus said, “The bread of God is that which cometh down out of heaven, and giveth life unto the world.” John 6:33, R. V.DA 386.1
Still thinking that it was temporal food to which Jesus referred, some of His hearers exclaimed, “Lord, evermore give us this bread.” Jesus then spoke plainly: “I am the bread of life.”DA 386.2
The figure which Christ used was a familiar one to the Jews. Moses, by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, had said, “Man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord.” And the prophet Jeremiah had written, “Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart.” Deuteronomy 8:3; Jeremiah 15:16. The rabbis themselves had a saying, that the eating of bread, in its spiritual significance, was the study of the law and the practice of good works; and it was often said that at the Messiah’s coming all Israel would be fed. The teaching of the prophets made plain the deep spiritual lesson in the miracle of the loaves. This lesson Christ was seeking to open to His hearers in the synagogue. Had they understood the Scriptures, they would have understood His words when He said, “I am the bread of life.” Only the day before, the great multitude, when faint and weary, had been fed by the bread which He had given. As from that bread they had received physical strength and refreshment, so from Christ they might receive spiritual strength unto eternal life. “He that cometh to Me,” He said, “shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst.” But He added, “Ye also have seen Me, and believe not.”DA 386.3
They had seen Christ by the witness of the Holy Spirit, by the revelation of God to their souls. The living evidences of His power had been before them day after day, yet they asked for still another sign. Had this been given, they would have remained as unbelieving as before. If they were not convinced by what they had seen and heard, it was useless to show them more marvelous works. Unbelief will ever find excuse for doubt, and will reason away the most positive proof.DA 386.4
Again Christ appealed to those stubborn hearts. “Him that cometh to Me I will in nowise cast out.” All who received Him in faith, He said, should have eternal life. Not one could be lost. No need for Pharisees and Sadducees to dispute concerning the future life. No longer need men mourn in hopeless grief over their dead. “This is the will of Him that sent Me, that everyone which seeth the Son, and believeth on Him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.”DA 387.1
But the leaders of the people were offended, “and they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that He saith, I came down from heaven?” They tried to arouse prejudice by referring scornfully to the lowly origin of Jesus. They contemptuously alluded to His life as a Galilean laborer, and to His family as being poor and lowly. The claims of this uneducated carpenter, they said, were unworthy of their attention. And on account of His mysterious birth they insinuated that He was of doubtful parentage, thus representing the human circumstances of His birth as a blot upon His history.DA 387.2
Jesus did not attempt to explain the mystery of His birth. He made no answer to the questionings in regard to His having come down from heaven, as He had made none to the questions concerning His crossing the sea. He did not call attention to the miracles that marked His life. Voluntarily He had made Himself of no reputation, and taken upon Him the form of a servant. But His words and works revealed His character. All whose hearts were open to divine illumination would recognize in Him “the Only-begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14.DA 387.3
The prejudice of the Pharisees lay deeper than their questions would indicate; it had its root in the perversity of their hearts. Every word and act of Jesus aroused antagonism in them; for the spirit which they cherished could find in Him no answering chord.DA 387.4
“No man can come to Me, except the Father which hath sent Me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto Me.” None will ever come to Christ, save those who respond to the drawing of the Father’s love. But God is drawing all hearts unto Him, and only those who resist His drawing will refuse to come to Christ.DA 387.5
In the words, “They shall be all taught of God,” Jesus referred to the prophecy of Isaiah: “All thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children.” Isaiah 54:13. This scripture the Jews appropriated to themselves. It was their boast that God was their teacher. But Jesus showed how vain is this claim; for He said, “Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto Me.” Only through Christ could they receive a knowledge of the Father. Humanity could not endure the vision of His glory. Those who had learned of God had been listening to the voice of His Son, and in Jesus of Nazareth they would recognize Him who through nature and revelation has declared the Father.DA 388.1
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on Me hath everlasting life.” Through the beloved John, who listened to these words, the Holy Spirit declared to the churches, “This is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He that hath the Son hath life.” 1 John 5:11, 12. And Jesus said, “I will raise him up at the last day.” Christ became one flesh with us, in order that we might become one spirit with Him. It is by virtue of this union that we are to come forth from the grave,—not merely as a manifestation of the power of Christ, but because, through faith, His life has become ours. Those who see Christ in His true character, and receive Him into the heart, have everlasting life. It is through the Spirit that Christ dwells in us; and the Spirit of God, received into the heart by faith, is the beginning of the life eternal.DA 388.2
The people had referred Christ to the manna which their fathers ate in the wilderness, as if the furnishing of that food was a greater miracle than Jesus had performed; but He shows how meager was that gift when compared with the blessings He had come to bestow. The manna could sustain only this earthly existence; it did not prevent the approach of death, nor insure immortality; but the bread of heaven would nourish the soul unto everlasting life. The Saviour said, “I am that bread of life. Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever.” To this figure Christ now adds another. Only through dying could He impart life to men, and in the words that follow He points to His death as the means of salvation. He says, “The bread that I will give is My flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.”DA 388.3
The Jews were about to celebrate the Passover at Jerusalem, in commemoration of the night of Israel’s deliverance, when the destroying angel smote the homes of Egypt. In the paschal lamb God desired them to behold the Lamb of God, and through the symbol receive Him who gave Himself for the life of the world. But the Jews had come to make the symbol all-important, while its significance was unnoticed. They discerned not the Lord’s body. The same truth that was symbolized in the paschal service was taught in the words of Christ. But it was still undiscerned.DA 389.1
Now the rabbis exclaimed angrily, “How can this Man give us His flesh to eat?” They affected to understand His words in the same literal sense as did Nicodemus when he asked, “How can a man be born when he is old?” John 3:4. To some extent they comprehended the meaning of Jesus, but they were not willing to acknowledge it. By misconstruing His words, they hoped to prejudice the people against Him.DA 389.2
Christ did not soften down His symbolical representation. He reiterated the truth in yet stronger language: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink His blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For My flesh is meat indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. He that eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, dwelleth in Me, and I in him.”DA 389.3
To eat the flesh and drink the blood of Christ is to receive Him as a personal Saviour, believing that He forgives our sins, and that we are complete in Him. It is by beholding His love, by dwelling upon it, by drinking it in, that we are to become partakers of His nature. What food is to the body, Christ must be to the soul. Food cannot benefit us unless we eat it, unless it becomes a part of our being. So Christ is of no value to us if we do not know Him as a personal Saviour. A theoretical knowledge will do us no good. We must feed upon Him, receive Him into the heart, so that His life becomes our life. His love, His grace, must be assimilated.DA 389.4
But even these figures fail to present the privilege of the believer’s relation to Christ. Jesus said, “As the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth Me, even he shall live by Me.” As the Son of God lived by faith in the Father, so are we to live by faith in Christ. So fully was Jesus surrendered to the will of God that the Father alone appeared in His life. Although tempted in all points like as we are, He stood before the world untainted by the evil that surrounded Him. Thus we also are to overcome as Christ overcame.DA 389.5
Are you a follower of Christ? Then all that is written concerning the spiritual life is written for you, and may be attained through uniting yourself to Jesus. Is your zeal languishing? has your first love grown cold? Accept again of the proffered love of Christ. Eat of His flesh, drink of His blood, and you will become one with the Father and with the Son.DA 390.1
The unbelieving Jews refused to see any except the most literal meaning in the Saviour’s words. By the ritual law they were forbidden to taste blood, and they now construed Christ’s language into a sacrilegious speech, and disputed over it among themselves. Many even of the disciples said, “This is an hard saying; who can hear it?”DA 390.2
The Saviour answered them: “Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where He was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.”DA 390.3
The life of Christ that gives life to the world is in His word. It was by His word that Jesus healed disease and cast out demons; by His word He stilled the sea, and raised the dead; and the people bore witness that His word was with power. He spoke the word of God, as He had spoken through all the prophets and teachers of the Old Testament. The whole Bible is a manifestation of Christ, and the Saviour desired to fix the faith of His followers on the word. When His visible presence should be withdrawn, the word must be their source of power. Like their Master, they were to live “by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4.DA 390.4
As our physical life is sustained by food, so our spiritual life is sustained by the word of God. And every soul is to receive life from God’s word for himself. As we must eat for ourselves in order to receive nourishment, so we must receive the word for ourselves. We are not to obtain it merely through the medium of another’s mind. We should carefully study the Bible, asking God for the aid of the Holy Spirit, that we may understand His word. We should take one verse, and concentrate the mind on the task of ascertaining the thought which God has put in that verse for us. We should dwell upon the thought until it becomes our own, and we know “what saith the Lord.”DA 390.5
In His promises and warnings, Jesus means me. God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son, that I by believing in Him, might not perish, but have everlasting life. The experiences related in God’s word are to be my experiences. Prayer and promise, precept and warning, are mine. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20. As faith thus receives and assimilates the principles of truth, they become a part of the being and the motive power of the life. The word of God, received into the soul, molds the thoughts, and enters into the development of character.DA 391.1
By looking constantly to Jesus with the eye of faith, we shall be strengthened. God will make the most precious revelations to His hungering, thirsting people. They will find that Christ is a personal Saviour. As they feed upon His word, they find that it is spirit and life. The word destroys the natural, earthly nature, and imparts a new life in Christ Jesus. The Holy Spirit comes to the soul as a Comforter. By the transforming agency of His grace, the image of God is reproduced in the disciple; he becomes a new creature. Love takes the place of hatred, and the heart receives the divine similitude. This is what it means to live “by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” This is eating the Bread that comes down from heaven.DA 391.2
Christ had spoken a sacred, eternal truth regarding the relation between Himself and His followers. He knew the character of those who claimed to be His disciples, and His words tested their faith. He declared that they were to believe and act upon His teaching. All who received Him would partake of His nature, and be conformed to His character. This involved the relinquishment of their cherished ambitions. It required the complete surrender of themselves to Jesus. They were called to become self-sacrificing, meek and lowly in heart. They must walk in the narrow path traveled by the Man of Calvary, if they would share in the gift of life and the glory of heaven.DA 391.3
The test was too great. The enthusiasm of those who had sought to take Him by force and make Him king grew cold. This discourse in the synagogue, they declared, had opened their eyes. Now they were undeceived. In their minds His words were a direct confession that He was not the Messiah, and that no earthly rewards were to be realized from connection with Him. They had welcomed His miracle-working power; they were eager to be freed from disease and suffering; but they would not come into sympathy with His self-sacrificing life. They cared not for the mysterious spiritual kingdom of which He spoke. The insincere, the selfish, who had sought Him, no longer desired Him. If He would not devote His power and influence to obtaining their freedom from the Romans, they would have nothing to do with Him.DA 391.4
Jesus told them plainly, “There are some of you that believe not;” adding, “Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto Me, except it were given unto him of My Father.” He wished them to understand that if they were not drawn to Him it was because their hearts were not open to the Holy Spirit. “The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 2:14. It is by faith that the soul beholds the glory of Jesus. This glory is hidden, until, through the Holy Spirit, faith is kindled in the soul.DA 392.1
By the public rebuke of their unbelief these disciples were still further alienated from Jesus. They were greatly displeased, and wishing to wound the Saviour and gratify the malice of the Pharisees, they turned their backs upon Him, and left Him with disdain. They had made their choice,—had taken the form without the spirit, the husk without the kernel. Their decision was never afterward reversed; for they walked no more with Jesus.DA 392.2
“Whose fan is in His hand, and He will throughly purge His floor, and gather His wheat into the garner.” Matthew 3:12. This was one of the times of purging. By the words of truth, the chaff was being separated from the wheat. Because they were too vain and self-righteous to receive reproof, too world-loving to accept a life of humility, many turned away from Jesus. Many are still doing the same thing. Souls are tested today as were those disciples in the synagogue at Capernaum. When truth is brought home to the heart, they see that their lives are not in accordance with the will of God. They see the need of an entire change in themselves; but they are not willing to take up the self-denying work. Therefore they are angry when their sins are discovered. They go away offended, even as the disciples left Jesus, murmuring, “This is an hard saying; who can hear it?”DA 392.3
Praise and flattery would be pleasing to their ears; but the truth is unwelcome; they cannot hear it. When the crowds follow, and the multitudes are fed, and the shouts of triumph are heard, their voices are loud in praise; but when the searching of God’s Spirit reveals their sin, and bids them leave it, they turn their backs upon the truth, and walk no more with Jesus.DA 392.4
As those disaffected disciples turned away from Christ, a different spirit took control of them. They could see nothing attractive in Him whom they had once found so interesting. They sought out His enemies, for they were in harmony with their spirit and work. They misinterpreted His words, falsified His statements, and impugned His motives. They sustained their course by gathering up every item that could be turned against Him; and such indignation was stirred up by these false reports that His life was in danger.DA 393.1
The news spread swiftly that by His own confession Jesus of Nazareth was not the Messiah. And thus in Galilee the current of popular feeling was turned against Him, as, the year before, it had been in Judea. Alas for Israel! They rejected their Saviour, because they longed for a conqueror who would give them temporal power. They wanted the meat which perishes, and not that which endures unto everlasting life.DA 393.2
With a yearning heart, Jesus saw those who had been His disciples departing from Him, the Life and the Light of men. The consciousness that His compassion was unappreciated, His love unrequited, His mercy slighted, His salvation rejected, filled Him with sorrow that was inexpressible. It was such developments as these that made Him a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief.DA 393.3
Without attempting to hinder those who were leaving Him, Jesus turned to the twelve and said, “Will ye also go away?”DA 393.4
Peter replied by asking, “Lord, to whom shall we go?” “Thou hast the words of eternal life,” he added. “And we believe and are sure that Thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.”DA 393.5
“To whom shall we go?” The teachers of Israel were slaves to formalism. The Pharisees and Sadducees were in constant contention. To leave Jesus was to fall among sticklers for rites and ceremonies, and ambitious men who sought their own glory. The disciples had found more peace and joy since they had accepted Christ than in all their previous lives. How could they go back to those who had scorned and persecuted the Friend of sinners? They had long been looking for the Messiah; now He had come, and they could not turn from His presence to those who were hunting His life, and had persecuted them for becoming His followers.DA 393.6
“To whom shall we go?” Not from the teaching of Christ, His lessons of love and mercy, to the darkness of unbelief, the wickedness of the world. While the Saviour was forsaken by many who had witnessed His wonderful works, Peter expressed the faith of the disciples,—“Thou art that Christ.” The very thought of losing this anchor of their souls filled them with fear and pain. To be destitute of a Saviour was to be adrift on a dark and stormy sea.DA 393.7
Many of the words and acts of Jesus appear mysterious to finite minds, but every word and act had its definite purpose in the work for our redemption; each was calculated to produce its own result. If we were capable of understanding His purposes, all would appear important, complete, and in harmony with His mission.DA 394.1
While we cannot now comprehend the works and ways of God, we can discern His great love, which underlies all His dealings with men. He who lives near to Jesus will understand much of the mystery of godliness. He will recognize the mercy that administers reproof, that tests the character, and brings to light the purpose of the heart.DA 394.2
When Jesus presented the testing truth that caused so many of His disciples to turn back, He knew what would be the result of His words; but He had a purpose of mercy to fulfill. He foresaw that in the hour of temptation every one of His beloved disciples would be severely tested. His agony in Gethsemane, His betrayal and crucifixion, would be to them a most trying ordeal. Had no previous test been given, many who were actuated by merely selfish motives would have been connected with them. When their Lord was condemned in the judgment hall; when the multitude who had hailed Him as their king hissed at Him and reviled Him; when the jeering crowd cried, “Crucify Him!”—when their worldly ambitions were disappointed, these self-seeking ones would, by renouncing their allegiance to Jesus, have brought upon the disciples a bitter, heart-burdening sorrow, in addition to their grief and disappointment in the ruin of their fondest hopes. In that hour of darkness, the example of those who turned from Him might have carried others with them. But Jesus brought about this crisis while by His personal presence He could still strengthen the faith of His true followers.DA 394.3
Compassionate Redeemer, who in the full knowledge of the doom that awaited Him, tenderly smoothed the way for the disciples, prepared them for their crowning trial, and strengthened them for the final test!From Heaven With Love
Chapter 41—The Crisis in Galilee
HLv 254.1
Christ knew that a turning point in His history was reached. Multitudes who desired to exalt Him to the throne today would turn from Him tomorrow. Disappointment of selfish ambition would turn love to hatred, and praise to curses.HLv 254.2
Yet He took no measures to avert the crisis. From the first He had held out no hope of earthly rewards. Of those now connected with Him, many had been attracted by hope of a worldly kingdom. These must be undeceived.HLv 254.3
Early next morning the people flocked to Bethsaida in great numbers. Those who had left Jesus the preceding night returned, expecting to find Him still there; for there had been no boat by which He could pass to the other side. But their search was fruitless.HLv 254.4
Meanwhile He had arrived at Gennesaret, after an absence of but one day. Those who had come from Bethsaida learned from His disciples how He had crossed the sea. The fury of the storm, the many hours of adverse winds, Christ walking on water, His reassuring words, the adventure of Peter, the sudden stilling of the tempest and landing of the boat, all were faithfully recounted to the wondering crowd. Not content with this, many hoped to receive from Christ’s own lips a further account of the miracle.HLv 254.5
Jesus did not gratify their curiosity. He sadly said, “Ye seek Me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. Labor not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life.” Seek not merely for material benefit, but for spiritual food.HLv 255.1
For the moment the interest of the hearers was awakened. “What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?” Their question meant, What shall we do that we may deserve heaven? What price are we required to pay in order to obtain the life to come?HLv 255.2
Jesus answered, “This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent.” The price of heaven is Jesus. The way to heaven is through faith in the Lamb of God.HLv 255.3
Jesus had done the very work prophecy had foretold the Messiah would do, but the people had not witnessed what their selfish hopes had pictured as His work. In the days of Moses Israel had been fed with manna forty years, and far greater blessings were expected from the Messiah. Why could Jesus not give health, strength, and riches to all His people, free them from their oppressors, and exalt them to power and honor? He claimed to be the Sent of God, yet refused to be Israel’s king. This was a mystery they could not fathom. Did He dare not assert His claims because He Himself doubted the divine character of His mission?HLv 255.4
Half mockingly a rabbi questioned: “What sign showest Thou then, that we may see, and believe Thee? what dost Thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.”HLv 255.5
“Then said Jesus unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven.” The giver of the manna was standing among them. Christ Himself had led the Hebrews and had daily fed them with the bread from heaven. That food was a type of the real bread from heaven. The life-giving Spirit is the true manna. “For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven, and gives life to the world.” RSV.HLv 256.1
Still thinking it was temporal food, some exclaimed, “Lord, evermore give us this bread.” Jesus then spoke plainly, “I am the bread of life.”HLv 256.2
Moses had said, “Man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord.” Deuteronomy 8:3. And Jeremiah had written, “Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart.” Jeremiah 15:16. The teaching of the prophets made plain the spiritual lesson in the miracle of the loaves. Had Christ’s hearers in the synagogue understood the Scriptures, they would have understood His words, “I am the bread of life.” As the multitude had received physical strength from the bread He had given them the day before, so from Christ they might receive spiritual strength unto eternal life. “He that cometh to Me,” He said, “shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst.” But he added, “Ye also have seen Me, and believe not.”HLv 256.3
They had seen Christ by the witness of the Holy Spirit, by the revelation of God to their souls. The living evidences of His power had been before them day after day, yet they asked for still another sign. If they were not convinced by what they had seen and heard, it was useless to show them more marvelous works. Unbelief will ever find excuse for doubt, and will reason away the most positive proof.HLv 256.4
Again Christ appealed to those stubborn hearts: “Him that cometh to Me I will in nowise cast out.” All who received Him in faith, He said, should have eternal life. No longer need men mourn in hopeless grief over their dead. “This is the will of Him that sent Me, that everyone which seeth the Son, and believeth on Him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.”HLv 256.5
But the leaders were offended. “Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How is it then that He saith, I came down from heaven?” Referring scornfully to the lowly origin of Jesus, they contemptuously alluded to His family as being poor and lowly. The claims of this uneducated carpenter, they said, were unworthy of their attention. On account of His mysterious birth they insinuated that He was of doubtful parentage.HLv 257.1
Jesus did not attempt to explain the mystery of His birth, as He had made no answer to the questions concerning His crossing the sea. Voluntarily He had made Himself of no reputation and taken the form of a servant. But His words and works revealed His character.HLv 257.2
The prejudice of the Pharisees had its root in the perversity of their hearts. Every word and act of Jesus aroused antagonism in them; for the spirit they cherished could find in Him no answering chord.HLv 257.3
“No one can come to Me, except the Father which hath sent Me draw him... . It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto Me.” None will ever come to Christ, save those who respond to the drawing of the Father’s love. But God is drawing all hearts unto Him, and only those who resist His drawing will refuse to come to Christ. Those who had learned of God had been listening to His Son, and in Jesus of Nazareth they would recognize Him who had declared the Father.HLv 257.4
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on Me hath everlasting life.” And Jesus said, “I will raise him up at the last day.” Christ became one flesh with us, that we might become one spirit with Him. By virtue of this union we are to come forth from the grave, because through faith His life has become ours. Those who see Christ and receive Him into the heart, have everlasting life. Through the Spirit, Christ dwells in us; and the Spirit of God, received by faith, is the beginning of life eternal.HLv 257.5
The manna which the fathers ate in the wilderness did not prevent death nor insure immortality, but the bread of heaven would nourish the soul unto everlasting life. The Saviour said, “This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die.” Only through dying could Christ impart life to men, and He points to His death as the means of salvation: “The bread that I will give is My flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.”HLv 258.1
In the symbol of the Passover lamb the Jews did not discern the Lord’s body. The same truth was taught in the words of Christ, but it was still undiscerned.HLv 258.2
Now the rabbis exclaimed angrily, “How can this Man give us His flesh to eat?” To some extent they comprehended the meaning of Jesus, but by misconstruing His words, hoped to prejudice the people against Him.HLv 258.3
Christ reiterated the truth in yet stronger language: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink His blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For My flesh is meat indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. He that eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, dwelleth in Me, and I in him.”HLv 258.4
What food is to the body, Christ must be to the soul. Food cannot benefit us unless it becomes a part of our being. So a theoretical knowledge will do us no good. We must feed upon Christ. His life, His love, His grace, must be assimilated.HLv 258.5
“As the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth Me, even he shall live by Me.” So fully was Jesus surrendered to the will of God that the Father alone appeared in His life. Although tempted in all points like as we are, He stood untainted by the evil that surrounded Him. Thus we also are to overcome as Christ overcame.HLv 258.6
Are you a follower of Christ? Then all that is written concerning the spiritual life may be attained through uniting yourself to Jesus. Has your first love grown cold? Accept again the love of Christ. Eat of His flesh, drink of His blood, and you will become one with the Father and with the Son.HLv 259.1
By ritual law the Jews were forbidden to taste blood, and they now construed Christ’s language into sacrilegious speech. Many even of the disciples said, “This is an hard saying; who can hear it?”HLv 259.2
The Saviour answered them: “Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where He was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.”HLv 259.3
The life of Christ that gives life to the world is in His word. By His word Jesus healed disease and cast out demons; by His word He stilled the sea and raised the dead. The whole Bible is a manifestation of Christ, and the Saviour desired to fix the faith of His followers on the word. When His visible presence should be withdrawn, the word must be the source of their power.HLv 259.4
As our physical life is sustained by food, so our spiritual life is sustained by the Word of God. As we must eat for ourselves, so we must receive the Word of ourselves. We should carefully study the Bible, asking God for the aid of the Holy Spirit, that we may understand His Word. We should take one verse, ascertain the thought God has put in that verse for us, and dwell upon the thought until it becomes our own.HLv 260.1
God will make precious revelations to His hungering, thirsting people. As they feed on His Word, they find it is spirit and life. The Word destroys the natural, earthly nature, and imparts a new life in Christ. The Holy Spirit comes as a Comforter. By God’s grace, the disciple becomes a new creature. Love takes the place of hatred, and the heart receives the divine similitude. This is eating the Bread that comes down from heaven.HLv 260.2
Christ knew the character of those who claimed to be His disciples, and His words tested their faith. He declared that they were to believe and act on His teaching and be conformed to His character. This involved the relinquishment of cherished ambitions. It required complete surrender to Jesus. They were called to become self-sacrificing, meek and lowly in heart, to walk in the narrow path traveled by the Man of Calvary.HLv 260.3
The test was too great. The enthusiasm of those who had sought to take Jesus by force and make Him king grew cold. This discourse had opened their eyes. No earthly rewards were to be realized from connection with Him. They had welcomed His miracle-working power but would not come into sympathy with His self-sacrificing life. If He would not obtain their freedom from the Romans, they would have nothing to do with Him.HLv 260.4
Jesus told them plainly, “There are some of you that believe not,” adding, “Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto Me, except it were given unto him of My Father.” If they were not drawn to Him, it was because their hearts were not open to the Holy Spirit.HLv 260.5
By the public rebuke of their unbelief, these disciples were still further alienated from Jesus. Wishing to wound the Saviour and gratify the malice of the Pharisees, they turned their backs on Him and left Him with disdain. They had made their choice; they walked no more with Jesus.HLv 261.1
By the words of truth, the chaff was being separated from the wheat. See Matthew 3:12. Because they were too self-righteous to receive reproof, many turned away. Souls are tested today as were those disciples in the synagogue at Capernaum. When truth is brought home to the heart, they see the need of an entire change, but are not willing to take up the self-denying work. They go away offended, murmuring, “This is an hard saying; who can hear it?”HLv 261.2
When the crowds follow and the multitudes are fed and the shouts of triumph are heard, their voices are loud in praise; but when God’s Spirit reveals sin and bids them leave it, they turn their backs on the truth.HLv 261.3
As those disaffected disciples turned away, a different spirit took control of them. They could see nothing attractive in Christ whom they had once found so interesting. They misinterpreted His words, falsified His statements, and impugned His motives, gathering up every item that could be turned against Him. Such indignation was stirred up by these false reports that His life was in danger.HLv 261.4
The news spread swiftly that by His own confession Jesus of Nazareth was not the Messiah. Thus in Galilee the popular feeling turned against Him, as, the year before, it had been in Judea. Israel rejected their Saviour because they wanted the food which perishes, not that which endures unto everlasting life.HLv 261.5
With a yearning heart, Jesus saw those who had been His disciples depart. His compassion unappreciated, His love unrequited, His salvation rejected—this filled Him with inexpressible sorrow. Such developments as these made Him “a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief.” Isaiah 53:3.HLv 261.6
Without attempting to hinder those who were leaving, Jesus turned to the Twelve and said, “Will ye also go away?”HLv 262.1
Peter replied by asking, “Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that Thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.”HLv 262.2
“To whom shall we go?” The disciples had found more peace and joy since they had accepted Christ than in all their previous lives. How could they go back to those who scorned and persecuted the Friend of sinners?HLv 262.3
“To whom shall we go?” To the darkness of unbelief, the wickedness of the world? Peter expressed the faith of the disciples—“Thou art that Christ.” To be destitute of a Saviour was to be adrift on a dark and stormy sea.HLv 262.4
Every word and act of Jesus had its definite purpose in the work of our redemption. While we cannot now comprehend the ways of God, we can discern His great love which underlies all His dealings with men. He who lives near to Jesus will recognize the mercy that tests the character and brings to light the purpose of the heart.HLv 262.5
Jesus knew what would be the result of His words. He foresaw that His agony in Gethsemane, His betrayal and crucifixion would be to His beloved disciples a most trying ordeal. Had no previous test been given, many actuated by merely selfish motives would have been connected with them. When their Lord was condemned, when the multitude who had hailed Him as their king hissed at Him and reviled Him, when the jeering crowd cried, “Crucify Him!”—these self-seeking ones would, by renouncing their allegiance to Jesus, have brought on the disciples a bitter, heart-burdening sorrow in addition to their grief and disappointment in the ruin of their fondest hopes. The example of those who turned from Him might have carried others with them. But Jesus brought about this crisis while by His personal presence He could still strengthen the faith of His true followers.HLv 263.1
Compassionate Redeemer, who in the full knowledge of the doom that awaited Him, tenderly smoothed the way for the disciples, prepared them for their crowning trial, and strengthened them for the final test!From Heaven With Love
Life in the Word
HLv 259.5
In His promises and warnings, Jesus means me. God so loved the world, that He gave His Son, that I by believing in Him, might not perish, but have everlasting life. The experiences related in God’s Word are to be my experiences. Prayer and promise are mine. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20. As faith thus assimilates the principles of truth, they become a part of the being and the motive power of the life. The Word molds the thoughts and enters into the development of character.John 6:26-35
Jesus, Name Above All Names
Bread of Life, July 12
JNN 206.1
“Most assuredly, I say to you, Moses did not give you the bread from heaven, but My Father gives you the true bread from heaven.”—John 6:32JNN 206.2
“Verily, verily, I say unto you,” Christ said, “Ye seek Me, not because ye saw the miracle, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. Labour not for the meat that perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you; for Him hath the Father sealed. Then said they unto Him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, That ye believe on Him whom He hath sent” (John 6:26-29).JNN 206.3
He assured them that Moses gave them not the bread from heaven. “My Father,” He said, “giveth you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world” (Verses 32, 33).JNN 206.5
“I am the Bread of life,” the author, nourisher, and supporter of eternal, spiritual life. In the thirty-fifth verse of the sixth chapter of John, Christ represents Himself under the similitude of heavenly bread. To eat His flesh and to drink His blood means to receive Him as a heaven-sent teacher. Belief in Him is essential to spiritual life. Those who feast on the Word never hunger, never thirst, never desire any higher or more exalted good. “In righteousness shalt thou be established; thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear; and from terror; for it shall not come near thee. Behold, they shall surely gather together but not by Me; whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake.... No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper, and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of Me, saith the Lord” (Isaiah 54:14, 15, 17).—Manuscript 81, 1906.John 6:26-36
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 151, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 151, 1902, par. 18
We have not studied and obeyed the words of Christ as we should. Christ likens His words to His flesh and blood. Speaking of this on one occasion, He said, “Ye seek Me not because of the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. Labor not for the meat which perisheth, but for the meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you; for Him hath God the Father sealed.” [John 6:26, 27.]17LtMs, Ms 151, 1902, par. 19
“Then said they unto Him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent.” [Verses 28, 29.]17LtMs, Ms 151, 1902, par. 20
“What sign showest Thou then,” they said, “that we may see and believe Thee? What dost Thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.” [Verses 30, 31.]17LtMs, Ms 151, 1902, par. 22
“Then said Jesus unto them, Verily, verily I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven, but My Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. Then said they unto Him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life; he which cometh to me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst. But I said unto you, That ye also have seen Me, and believe not.” [Verses 32-36.]John 6:26-58
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 50, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 50, 1898, par. 4
Men are ingenious in finding excuses for evil-doing. Those who resist the truth because it involves self denial and the cross invent plausible excuses for their course of action. Men who treat indifferently the light shining on their pathway—the light which the Lord has given them for their soul’s salvation and their eternal good—who resist the convictions of the truth because it is truth that public sentiment does not favor, will justify themselves for withdrawing from the truth as did the disciples when Christ declared Himself to be the Bread of life, saying, “As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father, so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. This is that bread which came down from heaven.” [John 6:57, 58.]13LtMs, Ms 50, 1898, par. 6
Said Christ, “Verily I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves and were filled.” If Christ could furnish bread for them to satisfy their temporal wants, they thought, it would be profitable for them to unite with Him. But Christ said, “Labor not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.” [Verses 26-29.]13LtMs, Ms 50, 1898, par. 8
Then came the unbelieving question from the Jews, “What sign showest thou, that we may see and believe thee? what dost thou work?” [Verse 30.] Had not the Jews just had fresh evidence in the feeding of the five thousand? What work, what sign, could Christ present before them to increase their faith? If evidence should be piled upon evidence, it would not, could not do more for them than had the evidence which had been given them. It was not evidence to convince that they wanted; it was an excuse to avoid the cross involved, of coming out from the world and being separate.John 6:26-63
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 48, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 48, 1895, par. 2
When tempted by Satan to alleviate His hunger by turning stones into bread, Christ met the temptation with the words, “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” [Matthew 4:4.] On one occasion Christ told His disciples, and the multitude that thronged Him, that they did not follow Him because of the miracles He did, but because they did eat of the loaves and were filled. He said to [them], “Labor not for the meat which perisheth, (be not over anxious for temporal food,) but for the meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give to you; for him hath God the Father sealed. ... Verily, verily I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven, but my father giveth you the true bread of heaven. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread.” [John 6:26, 27, 32-34.]10LtMs, Ms 48, 1895, par. 4
Jesus said unto them, “I am the bread of life, he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. ... This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. ... Verily, verily I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you ... He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. ... It is the Spirit that quickeneth, the flesh profiteth nothing, the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life.” [Verses 35, 50, 51, 53, 56, 63.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 21, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 21, 1897, par. 4
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracle, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. Labor not for the meat that perisheth, but for the meat which endureth unto everlasting life; which the Son of God shall give unto you; for him hath the Father sealed.” “They said therefore unto him, What sign showest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? What dost thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the desert, as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat. Then said Jesus unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven, but my father giveth you that true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. Then said they unto him, Lord, ever more give us this bread. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” [John 6:26, 27, 30-35.]12LtMs, Ms 21, 1897, par. 5
It is far more essential for all who claim to believe on Jesus Christ to understand by experience what this Scripture means, than to be in such perplexity as to what shall be cooked on the Sabbath, to be placed on our tables. It is of far greater consequence for us to know what is our spiritual nourishment. “Then said Jesus unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood hath eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father, so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live forever.” [Verses 53-58.]12LtMs, Ms 21, 1897, par. 6
“My flesh,” says Christ, “will I give for the life of the world.” [Verse 51.] He tells us that we have no life unless we eat His flesh and drink His blood. He could not possibly mean temporal eating and drinking. Christ made this statement over and over again, because their spiritual life depended on their understanding His words and doing them. He took no apparent notice because those that heard Him were offended, but repeated His lesson over and over again.12LtMs, Ms 21, 1897, par. 34
Those who have lived on the flesh and blood of the Son of God, which is His Word, will be strengthened, rooted, and grounded in the faith. They see increased evidence why they should prize and obey the Word of God. With David, they say, “They have made void thy law; therefore love I thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.” [Psalm 119:126, 127.] While others account them dross, they will arise to depend the faith. All who study their convenience, their pleasure, their enjoyment, will not stand in their trial. “Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day; for my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.” [John 6:54-56.] Precious words! It is the Spirit that quickeneth, the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. [Verse 63.]John 6:26-68
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 17, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 17, 1897, par. 5
You are fighting for an immortal crown, and those who strive for this crown must fight lawfully. Many who might ride victoriously into the harbor will make shipwreck of the faith. But looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of your faith, you may say as did Peter, when the Lord asked His disciples, “Will ye also go away?” “Lord, to whom shall we go; thou hast the words of eternal life.” [John 6:67, 68.]12LtMs, Lt 17, 1897, par. 6
Many of those who had been following Christ apostatized almost immediately after the miracle of the loaves. Why did they do this? “Ye seek me,” said the One who knows all things, “not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.” [Verse 26.] Christ made the miracle of the loaves the occasion of His wonderful sermon on the bread of life. The result was that many, when they heard the conditions of eternal life and entrance into the kingdom of God, “went back, and walked no more with him.” [Verse 66.] They came only for the temporal advantages they could obtain.John 6:27
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 52, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 52, 1890, par. 5
Jesus said of Himself, “Him hath God the Father sealed” (John 6:27); and He declared Himself as “Him whom the Father hath sanctified” (John 10:36) and sent into the world as His divine representative, our Mediator full of grace and truth. Ask Isaiah who He is, and he will tell you, “Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 44, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 44, 1890, par. 31
I was shown that man has sought out many inventions with the aptitude, sharpness, and acute wisdom of Satan’s devices, for he is back of these imaginings. If men would not trust in men, if they would not trust in their own wisdom, which they think is beyond question, but would, in simplicity of faith, trust in the Lord God of Israel, then would they come out of the cave where human reasoning is their strength and stand with God. They could hear His voice and know who it is who speaks with them. Jesus Christ is the only strength and hope of His people. Men will climb to exalted heights, drawing minds to their wisdom. Christ laid hold on the nature of man and erected the cross between humanity and divinity, between heaven and earth, to create a wonderful center of attraction which would draw men across the gulf of sin and separation to Himself, the Lifegiver. “Him hath God the Father sealed.” [John 6:27.] Jesus proclaimed Himself as Him “whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world.” [John 10:36.] At His baptism, all human instrumentality was dispensed with as unworthy of the greatness of the One in whom dwelt all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 198, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 198, 1899, par. 44
These words point out the possibilities and probabilities before the people of God. We are to be laborers together with God. Every Christian should give close attention to the reading and hearing of the Word. Every Christian is to be an earnest, practical worker. Constantly we are to obey the word, “Labor not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto eternal life.” [John 6:27.]Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
A True Representation
CT 31.1
“Labor not for the meat which perisheth,” Christ admonished, “but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for Him hath God the Father sealed.” John 6:27. When we obey these words, we shall rightly understand the teachings of the Scriptures, and esteem the truth as the most valuable treasure with which to store the mind. We shall have within us a wellspring of the water of life. We shall pray, as did the psalmist, “Open Thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Thy law;” and we shall find, as he did, that “the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is Thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.” Psalm 119:18; 19:9-11.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 156, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 156, 1907, par. 16
“We are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Christ engaged in the great work for which He lived and died. We are to be instant in season and out of season. And why? “For ye are bought with a price” and have enlisted under the banner of Prince Immanuel. [1 Corinthians 6:20.] We are enlisted for labor, “not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life.” [John 6:27.] We are to work out our own salvation with fear and with trembling.In Heavenly Places
Battles to Fight, April 20
HP 117.3
To follow Christ is not freedom from conflict. It is not child’s play. It is not spiritual idleness. All the enjoyment in Christ’s service means sacred obligations in meeting oft stern conflicts. To follow Christ means stern battles, active labor, warfare against the world, the flesh, and the devil. Our enjoyment is the victories gained for Christ in earnest, hard, warfare.... We are enlisted for labor, “not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life” (John 6:27)....Manuscript Releases, vol. 10 [Nos. 771-850]
MR No. 830—Work of Angels
10MR 319.2
Heavenly messengers are sent to minister unto those who shall be heirs of salvation, and these would converse with the teachers if they were not so well satisfied with old customs and maxims, and the well-trodden path of tradition, if they were not so fearful of getting away from a certain line that keeps them under the shadow of the world. Men and women labor to obtain a class of food which is not calculated to strengthen spirituality, to give that wisdom, that knowledge, that higher education which comes from God, and which alone can give spiritual vigor and moral strength. Christ says, “Labour not for that meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of God shall give unto you: for Him hath God the Father sealed” (John 6:27).—Manuscript 37, 1899, pp. 5-6. (“The Need for Consecrated Workers,” March 21, 1899.)EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
John 6:1-71
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 274, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 274, 1908, par. 15
“God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] In the sixth chapter of his gospel, the disciple John tells us of most precious things that are made possible to us if we will individually act our part. “This is the will of Him that sent Me, that every one that seeth the Son and believeth on Him, may have everlasting life; and I will raise Him up at the last day.” [Verse 40.]23LtMs, Lt 274, 1908, par. 16
“Verily, verily I say unto you,” Christ declared, “He that believeth on Me hath everlasting life. I am that bread of life. Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever: and the bread which I give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world.” [Verses 47-51.]Jesus, Name Above All Names
Bread Sent Down From Heaven, February 9
JNN 48.1
“This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that one may eat of it and not die.”—John 6:50JNN 48.5
Jesus Christ is the knowledge of the Father, and Christ is our great teacher sent from God. Christ has declared in the sixth chapter of John that He is that bread sent down from heaven. “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on Me hath everlasting life. I am that bread of life. Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever: and the bread that I will give is My flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” The disciples did not comprehend His words. Says Christ, “It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.”—Fundamentals of Christian Education, 382-384.