Practical, Miracle or Relational?

John 6:1-15 & 25-59Shaping Encounters

John’s Feeding of the 5000

• Jesus’ initiative and agenda– v6 He knew what He would do– v11 Jesus distributes the food

(synoptics = disciples)

• Emphasis on feasting and relational aspect– v4 Backdrop of the Passover – v3, 10, 11 Sitting and eating together

Passover Backdrop

• SACRIFICE for salvation (lamb & firstborn)

• REDEMPTION from slavery

• MEAL / FEAST of celebration and worship

• Future and final (eschatological) DELIVERANCE– Isaiah 25:6-9

Passover Backdrop

During the preparation for the Passover:

• Deuteronomy 16:4 – get rid of all yeast!

LACK OF BREAD

Jesus is the bread

• Exodus 12:3-6 – set aside a lamb for four days, looking for blemishes

INSPECTION OF THE SACRIFICIAL LAMB

Jesus is the sacrificial lamb

Jesus’ Inspection v25-40

• v25-29 Looking for Jesus to meet their practical needs– food– revolution

• v30-40 Looking for Jesus to do a spectacular miracle– “heavenly” bread, not “earthly” bread

Jesus’ Offering v41-59

Jesus’ death offers us:

• SALVATION from the penalty for sin

• REDEMPTION from slavery to Satan

• FEASTING in life and relationship with Him

• For ETERNITY