Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of John - Chapter 6 - Verse 60

6:60
Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?

Meaning

When Jesus spoke about being the bread of life in the Gospel of John, many of his disciples found it difficult to understand and accept. The idea of partaking in his body and blood seemed like a hard saying to them. They struggled to grasp the deeper spiritual meaning behind his words and questioned who could possibly hear such a teaching. This verse highlights the challenges faced by those trying to comprehend the teachings of Jesus and serves as a reminder that faith requires not only belief but also a willingness to engage with difficult and complex truths. It prompts us to reflect on our own response to the teachings of Jesus and to consider the depth of our understanding and commitment to following him.

Theological Overview

When Jesus spoke to his disciples about his upcoming sacrifice, many of them found it difficult to accept. The phrase "This is a hard saying; who can hear it?" reveals their struggle to comprehend the depth and significance of Jesus' words. The theological interpretation of this verse sheds light on the idea that following Jesus requires a level of commitment and belief that may be challenging for some. It emphasizes the need for faith and trust in the teachings of Christ, even when they are difficult to understand or accept. The concept of hearing in this context goes beyond simple listening; it involves truly grasping and internalizing the message being conveyed. Word studies on phrases like "hard saying" can further illuminate the intensity and profound nature of Jesus' message, underscoring the weight of the disciples' reaction. Overall, this verse prompts us to reflect on the demands of discipleship and the transformative power of Jesus' teachings.

American Standard Version

Many therefore of his disciples, when the heard [this], said, This is a hard saying; who can hear it?
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