Connect John 6:25 with Matthew 6:33 about seeking God's kingdom first. The Scene at Capernaum John 6:25: “When they found Him on the other side of the sea, they asked Him, ‘Rabbi, when did You get here?’” • The crowd had chased Jesus across the Sea of Galilee after the miraculous feeding (John 6:1-14). • Their opening question sounds polite, yet Jesus soon uncovers a deeper hunger—one focused on temporal needs rather than eternal priorities. The Heart Issue Revealed John 6:26-27: “Jesus replied, ‘Truly, truly, I tell you, you are looking for Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate the loaves and were filled. Do not work for food that perishes, but for food that endures to eternal life…’” • Jesus exposes motives: they sought full stomachs more than fellowship with the Savior. • “Food that perishes” stands for any earthly pursuit—comfort, security, reputation—that can eclipse kingdom concerns. • “Food that endures” points to Himself (John 6:35) and the life He gives. The Kingdom First Principle Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” • “Seek” is continuous, intentional pursuit. • “First” sets the order—God’s reign and righteousness precede all lesser needs. • “All these things” refers to necessities (6:31-32)—God provides when priorities align with His rule. Bringing the Two Passages Together 1. Same Contrast • John 6 highlights people chasing bread; Matthew 6 warns against anxious chasing of daily provisions. • Both passages draw the eye upward—from material focus to kingdom focus. 2. Same Invitation • Jesus redirects the crowd: “Work…for food that endures” (John 6:27). • He directs disciples: “Seek first the kingdom” (Matthew 6:33). • The core call: make God’s rule and relationship our chief pursuit. 3. Same Assurance • John 6:35: “I am the bread of life.” • Matthew 6:33: “All these things will be added.” • Jesus Himself satisfies spiritually and meets earthly needs in His time. Supporting Scriptures • Colossians 3:1-2—“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” • Luke 12:29-32—Parallel to Matthew 6, promising the Father’s provision. • Psalm 37:4—Delight in the Lord, and He grants the desires rightly aligned with Him. Practical Applications Today • Evaluate motives: Ask whether current pursuits resemble “food that perishes.” • Center daily rhythms on Word and prayer, feeding on the true Bread (John 6:57). • Prioritize corporate worship and service, expressing tangible allegiance to the kingdom. • Practice generous giving; it directs the heart toward heaven (Matthew 6:21). • Rest from anxiety by recalling the Father’s care—He clothes lilies, feeds birds, and much more His children (Matthew 6:26-30). |
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