In the Old Testament, bread is a symbol of God’s provision. As the Israelites traveled through the wilderness, God gave them bread, called manna, to physically eat. Through the birth, death, and resurrection of God’s Son, Jesus Christ, bread is given a new meaning. When Jesus tells us, “I am the bread of life,” he is assuring us he is the bread that gives life to the world and is the only one who can sustain us spiritually. When we put our faith in him, he gives us spiritual bread that will not spoil, and abundant life that will never end. The bread of life is not physical bread, but a spiritual bread found in Jesus Christ. 

Read

John 6:35: “Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.’” 

Discuss

Why did Jesus say he was the bread of life?

By comparing himself with bread, Jesus is saying he is essential for life, not a physical life, but an eternal life. John 6:27 says, “Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you…”

What does it mean we won’t hunger or thirst again?

Jesus satisfies our spiritual hunger and thirst when we put our faith in him.

What must we do to get the bread Jesus is offering?

Answer Christ’s invitation for eternal salvation by putting our faith in him as the Messiah and Son of God.

Pray

Matthew 6:11: “Give us this day our daily bread.”

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for sending your Son, Jesus Christ, to be the Bread of Life for the world. In and through Christ alone our souls are satisfied with the bread he so freely gives. We come to you with gratitude and prayer to continually seek spiritual nourishment. 

In Jesus’ name,

Amen