How should John 6:62 influence our understanding of Jesus' heavenly origin? The Context of John 6:62 “Then what if you see the Son of Man ascend to where He was before?” (John 6:62) Jesus spoke these words after many listeners stumbled over His declaration that they must “eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood” (John 6:53). He knew some were offended and doubted His divine claims. Verse 62 answers their skepticism by pointing forward to His visible ascension—proof that He truly came from heaven and would return there. Key Observations from the Verse • “Son of Man” — Jesus’ favorite self-designation, tying Him to Daniel 7:13-14 while emphasizing His real humanity. • “Ascend” — not symbolic but literal; Jesus would bodily rise into the sky (Acts 1:9-11). • “Where He was before” — unmistakable affirmation that His original dwelling place is heaven. He is not merely inspired; He pre-exists eternally with the Father (John 1:1-2). How John 6:62 Shapes Our View of Jesus’ Heavenly Origin 1. Pre-existence confirmed • Jesus speaks of heaven as His prior residence, implying a life before Bethlehem. • Supports texts like John 3:13, “No one has ascended into heaven except the One who descended from heaven—the Son of Man.” 2. The ascension guarantees credibility • If He returns to heaven in full view of eyewitnesses, every claim He made on earth carries divine authority. • Luke 24:51 and Acts 1:9 record the fulfillment, cementing His heavenly identity. 3. Divinity and humanity held together • He is the “Son of Man” who walks dusty Galilean roads yet is equally at home in the glory of God’s throne room. • Philippians 2:6-8 shows this dual reality: “being in very nature God… made Himself nothing.” 4. Salvation grounded in heavenly initiative • Only One who comes from heaven can open heaven for us (John 14:2-3). • His origin guarantees that His sacrificial offering (John 6:51) has infinite worth. Implications for Daily Faith • Confidence in the gospel: The One who feeds our souls is the same One who originated in glory—His promises cannot fail. • Hope of our own future: Because Jesus ascended to where He was before, we who trust Him will follow (John 14:19; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). • Perspective in trials: Earthly struggles are temporary; our Savior’s true home is our ultimate destination (Colossians 3:1-4). Summary Points to Remember • John 6:62 directly links Jesus’ forthcoming ascension with His prior heavenly existence. • The verse affirms both His eternal divinity and genuine humanity. • Believers can rest assured that the gospel’s origin is not earthly speculation but divine revelation from the One who “was before.” |
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