John 6:1-21 After these things Jesus went over the sea of Galilee, which is the sea of Tiberias.… I. CHRIST IS READY TO SATISFY THE WANTS OF THE BODY. Many persons do not trust Him in earthly pursuits. Christianity for them is something "very spiritual." "They cannot live by prayer." "Sermons do not satisfy hunger." "Godliness does not give success in trade." The gospel and Christian experience, however, show that Jesus is a good Provider for bodily wants. 1. He has sympathy for the needs of mankind (ver. 5). Although tired and weak and engaged in the greatest affairs, yet, like a good householder, He is mindful of the least wants of His people, and provides an evening meal. He does not forget the hungry raven: will He forget those who He has taught to pray for their daily bread (Deuteronomy 4:7). 2. He awakens sympathetic hearts and hands to alleviate want. Here the disciples. The apostolic Church, in the Spirit of Christ, cared for its poor, widows, and orphans. Rome built splendid theatres: the Spirit of Christ builds hospitals. II. CHRIST NEVER FORGETS THE WANTS OF THE SOUL. 1. Man's greatest want is bread for the soul — food that will be good when the world shall pass away, that will be palatable in old age, that will strengthen in sickness, and restore the dying. 2. The Saviour's highest act of sovereignty is the bestowment of this spiritual food. 3. His aim is to awaken desire for this heavenly bread by means of earthly good things and providences. (C. Gerok, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: After these things Jesus went over the sea of Galilee, which is the sea of Tiberias. |
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