In the early chapters of John, Jesus begins to reveal his glory through a series of signs (miracles). Large crowds begin to listen to, watch and follow Jesus and many, seeing the signs, come to believe that he is really the Saviour of the world. Others, however, see the signs and begin to question his authority and eventually challenge and persecute him.

In John 5-8 we see that this rising opposition leads to division among those following him and some even turn away (6:66). But Jesus, confident in his identity, challenges their understanding of God, God’s plans, and God’s work in the world. Jesus declares that the Scriptures are about him (4:39), that Moses wrote about him (4:46), that God has placed his seal of approval on him (5:27), that he will raise people up on the last day (6:54), that he was sent by God (7:29, 8:42) and that he is indeed God (8:58). This final declaration leads to an immediate response as people lift stones seeking to kill him. But as the one who is the Bread of Life (6:35) his time has not yet come and they are unable to lay a hand on him. His purposes are bigger and he is walking to the beat of the Father’s will rather than reacting to the whims and pressures of the crowd.

We’re expecting, as you study John 5-8, that God will draw you near as a follower of Jesus and open your eyes to his majesty and power.

“For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.’”

— John 6:40