What is the meaning of John 6:4? Now • John opens this verse with an immediate time-marker, grounding the narrative in real history (cf. Luke 1:3; 2 Peter 1:16). • “Now” links what follows to the preceding signs—showing that Jesus’ next miracle (John 6:5-14) is part of an unfolding, purposeful sequence (John 2:11; 5:8-9). • It reminds readers that God’s redemptive plan advances in specific moments, not vague myths (Galatians 4:4-5). the Jewish Feast • John calls it “the feast of the Jews” because it was one of three pilgrim feasts commanded by God (Exodus 23:14-17; Deuteronomy 16:16). • Mentioning the feast explains why great crowds were on the move toward Jerusalem and thus available to witness the feeding of the five thousand (John 6:2; Mark 6:34). • The phrase highlights corporate worship and covenant identity—Israel gathering to remember God’s mighty act of salvation (Psalm 122:1-4). of the Passover • Passover commemorates the lamb’s blood that spared Israel in Egypt (Exodus 12:1-14). • John continually ties Jesus to Passover: John 1:29 (“the Lamb of God”), John 19:14 (“the Day of Preparation for the Passover”), and 1 Corinthians 5:7 (“Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed”). • By situating the feeding miracle at Passover, John prepares us for Jesus’ Bread of Life teaching (John 6:35) and His ultimate self-giving on the cross. was near • The phrase situates events shortly before the actual feast, underscoring urgency and anticipation (John 11:55). • “Near” hints at prophetic fulfillment: the true Passover Lamb is approaching His appointed hour (John 13:1; Matthew 26:18). • It also explains the massive gathering and the disciples’ logistical concern about feeding the multitude (John 6:5-7). summary John 6:4 does far more than date a scene. By noting that “Now the Jewish Feast of the Passover was near,” the Spirit anchors the coming miracle in real time, recalls Israel’s redemption, points forward to Christ’s sacrificial death, and frames the Bread of Life discourse. The verse reminds us that God orchestrates history so that every sign, feast, and moment converges on Jesus—the true Lamb who provides lasting deliverance and sustenance for His people. |
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