January 28th Small Group Lesson Plan: The Book of John 6:22-70
True Bread (John 6:22–70)
After the miracle of feeding the five thousand, the crowd continues to follow Jesus—but their motives are exposed. In John 6:22–27, Jesus confronts them gently yet firmly: they are seeking Him not because they understood the sign, but because they ate and were filled. Their hunger was physical, but Jesus invites them to consider a deeper need—“food that endures to eternal life” (John 6:27). This passage calls us to examine our own hearts. Do we pursue Jesus primarily for what He can give us, or for who He truly is?
Jesus then makes one of the most profound declarations in all of Scripture: “I am the bread of life” (John 6:35). Bread was a daily necessity in Jewish life—basic, sustaining, essential. By identifying Himself this way, Jesus reveals that life itself, both now and eternally, is found only in Him. Just as manna sustained Israel in the wilderness for a day (John 6:49), Jesus offers Himself as the true bread from heaven who gives life forever (John 6:51). Faith in Christ is not a one-time taste; it is a continual dependence.
As Jesus’ teaching grows more difficult, resistance grows stronger. His words about eating His flesh and drinking His blood (John 6:53–58) shock many listeners. They stumble not because Jesus is unclear, but because His message demands surrender. He is not offering a metaphorical add-on to their lives; He is calling them to full participation in His life, death, and mission. The gospel is not hard to understand, but it is hard to accept—because it requires us to let go of control.
The turning point comes in John 6:66: “Many of His disciples turned back and no longer walked with Him.” Following Jesus is not always popular, comfortable, or easy. When expectations are unmet and teachings challenge us, we are tempted to walk away. Yet Jesus does not chase after the crowd. Instead, He turns to the Twelve and asks a piercing question: “Do you want to go away as well?” (John 6:67). Peter’s response is the heart of this devotion: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68). Peter does not claim perfect understanding or unwavering strength—only deep conviction. Even when Jesus is difficult to understand, He is still the only source of true life. There is nowhere else to go.
This passage invites us to remain when faith is tested. When Jesus challenges our comfort, corrects our desires, or stretches our trust, will we stay? True discipleship is not about convenience but commitment. It is choosing Christ not just for His miracles, but for His message; not just for bread that fills the stomach, but for grace that fills the soul.
Reflection:
1) Has there been a time you’ve sought God only for what He can give, rather than for who He is?
2) When scripture seems hard or the path narrow, how do we surrender and continue to follow Jesus?
3) Name some ways to rely on the Spirit (v. 63) instead of the flesh, as we encounter challenge.