Definition: I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from John 6:51. It's a really powerful message about Jesus and God’s love! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is saying that He is literally the bread of life – a physical, nourishing loaf that came down from heaven. This isn't just any bread; it’s a special kind of bread that offers eternal life. Let's unpack it layer by layer: “I am the living bread…” : Jesus is introducing Himself as the source of life and sustenance. He’s not just talking about bread; He’s claiming to be the bread itself. "...which came down from heaven..." : This emphasizes that this isn't something created by humans. It’s a gift directly from God, coming from a place of immense power and divinity. “If any man eat of this bread…” : This is the core promise. It’s about receiving this life-giving bread. "...he shall live for ever..." : This is a huge statement! It means that whoever eats this bread will live forever – not in a literal, eternal sense, but in a way that lasts eternally through God's grace. “and the bread that I will give for the life of the world” : This is where it gets really significant. Jesus isn’t just offering a temporary blessing; He’s offering eternal life . The “life of the world” refers to the entire future of humanity and all creation. What does this mean practically? This verse speaks to the fundamental truth that God loves us so much that He wants to give us something that surpasses our own limited existence. It's a promise of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. It’s about more than just surviving; it's about living a life filled with purpose and joy, eternally with God. Important Note: This is a complex verse, and there are different interpretations. However, the core message – that Jesus is the source of life – remains the central understanding. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its significance within the context of the New Testament? Give you a brief summary of its meaning for someone unfamiliar with it?