I Am the Bread of Life

In John 6, Jesus reveals one of His most powerful truths: “I am the bread of life. He that comes to me shall never hunger, and he that believes on me shall never thirst.” This is one of seven profound “I AM” statements Jesus makes—each revealing His divine nature, fulfilling Old Testament promises, and calling us to respond in faith.

When Jesus says “I AM”, He is declaring Himself to be God—the eternal, self-existent One who alone can satisfy the deepest needs of our hearts. Just as God told Moses at the burning bush “I AM THAT I AM” (Exodus 3:14), Jesus echoes this divine name, affirming His identity as the Messiah and Savior.

Our Greatest Need

The people sought Jesus not for His miracles’ true meaning, but because He had fed them physically. Like so many today, they were focused on temporary, earthly needs. But Jesus pointed them to something far greater: spiritual bread that gives life forever. Earthly bread satisfies for a moment; the bread from heaven, which is Christ Himself, satisfies eternally.

The Search for Salvation

When the crowd asked, “What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?” (John 6:28), they revealed a common desire—to earn eternal life through human effort. But Jesus answered: “This is the work of God, that you believe on Him whom He has sent.” (John 6:29) Eternal life isn’t about what we do; it’s about faith in Christ, the one sent by the Father.

The Search for a Sign

Despite witnessing miracles, the people asked for more—“What sign do you show us?” (John 6:30). They referred to Moses feeding Israel with manna in the wilderness. But Jesus corrected them: “Moses didn’t give you that bread; my Father did. And now He gives you the true bread from heaven” (John 6:32). That true bread is Jesus Himself—the one who gives life to the world.

The Bread of Life

The people responded, “Lord, evermore give us this bread.” (John 6:34) And Jesus declared: “I am the bread of life.” He is the only one who can truly satisfy our spiritual hunger and thirst. Religion, the law, wealth, or human pursuits will leave us empty. Only Jesus fills the deepest longings of our soul.

God’s Provision and Our Response

Jesus made clear that salvation is God’s work: “No man can come to me, except the Father which has sent me draw him.”(John 6:44) It is God who draws us, opens our eyes, and gives us eternal life when we believe in His Son. Salvation is not earned by effort, tradition, or religion—it is received by faith in Christ alone.

Like eating bread at a meal, we must receive Jesus into our lives—trusting Him, believing in His death and resurrection for our sin. Jesus said: “He that believes on me has everlasting life.” (John 6:47) The invitation is open: come, believe, and be satisfied forever.

The Challenge of Faith

Some in the crowd rejected Him, questioning how Jesus could say He came from heaven when they knew His earthly family. But Jesus, the true Bread from Heaven, was offering them eternal life. “If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever.” (John 6:51)

Conclusion

Jesus is the Bread of Life—sent by the Father to save us from sin and to give eternal life. Have you received Him? Like the bread we break at the Lord’s Table, Jesus’ broken body reminds us of His sacrifice. If you are a believer, let this truth stir your gratitude. If not, will you trust Him today?