How does John 6:28 connect with Ephesians 2:8-9 on faith and works? Setting the Stage in John 6 • After the miraculous feeding, the crowd pursues Jesus for more bread (John 6:26). • Their question: “Then they inquired, ‘What must we do to perform the works of God?’” (John 6:28). • They assume eternal life hinges on human effort. Jesus Redefines “Work” • Jesus answers, “This is the work of God: to believe in the One He has sent.” (John 6:29) • Key observations: – “Work” (singular) shifts from many deeds to one response. – The verb “believe” is continuous: keep trusting. – Faith is commanded, yet Jesus labels it God’s work, not humanity’s achievement. Ephesians 2:8–9 Clarifies the Gift “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9) • Salvation originates in grace (“gift of God”). • Faith itself “not from yourselves.” • Works earn nothing toward salvation; boasting is excluded. Connecting the Dots • John 6:28-29 answers the crowd’s “What must we do?” by redefining the only acceptable “work” as faith. • Ephesians 2:8-9 explains how even that faith comes: as a grace-gift, never a human wage. • Together they teach: – God requires belief in His Son. – God supplies the ability to believe. – Therefore, salvation is wholly divine in origin and reception. Living Out the Truth • Rest in Christ’s finished work (John 19:30; Hebrews 4:10). • Recognize good works as the fruit, not the root, of salvation (Ephesians 2:10; Titus 3:8). • Evaluate motives: are deeds an attempt to earn, or a grateful response to grace? • Share the gospel confidently, knowing God grants faith (Acts 13:48). Key Takeaways • The crowd asked for a checklist; Jesus offered a Person. • Faith is the “work,” yet it is God’s work within us. • Grace secures salvation from start to finish, leaving no room for boasting but every reason for obedient gratitude (Romans 12:1; James 2:17). |
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