As we continue our study of the Gospel of John, we pick up at verse fourteen of chapter six. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the Apostle writes:
“After the people saw the sign Jesus performed, they began to say, ‘Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.’ Jesus, knowing that they intended to to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by Himself.” (John 6: 14 -15)
Jesus had just fed 5,000 men, and their families of women and children, with five small barley loaves of bread, and two small fish. His Disciples picked up 12 baskets of bread after all of them had eaten all they wanted. The people knew this was more than just a Preacher. This had to be the Prophet Moses had told them would come.
Moses had told them, as was recorded in their scripture, and is recorded in Deuteronomy for us: “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your fellow Israelites. You must listen to Him.” He told them, The Lord said, “I will put my words into His mouth. He will tell them everything I command Him. I myself will call to account anyone Who does not listen to my words that the prophet speaks in my name.” (Deuteronomy 18: 15-19)
The children of Israel had been waiting for hundreds of years for the one who would lead them as the great Prophet Moses had. Someone who could part a Sea that was deep enough to drown the army of the pursuing Pharaoh. Who could strike a rock and water would come forth. A Leader and a miracle worker. After hearing Jesus Preach, and then seeing the miracle, they thought this is the One. Obviously they were ready to declare Jesus as Prophet and King. The Messiah who would set them free, and restore the kingdom of David.
Jesus is the Prophet proclaimed by Moses. He did come to be the Messiah, but not to take the throne of David. That will happen at His next coming. This time He came to fight for us and set us free from the bondage of our sins and sickness. He took these things upon Himself at the cross, and defeated the enemy that brought them, but it was not time for Him to take the external throne. So, He walked away from all of the glory, withdrawing to a mountain by Himself. He did not even take His Disciples. He wanted to just be alone with His Abba Father to talk and pray. This is how He kept His priorities. So it is for us when things start going in the wrong direction. He will always help us stay on the right path when we go to Him.
Jesus was always teaching and modeling behavior for us. How wonderful it is to know how to live the powerful life of peace on earth as we follow Him.
Blessings and love to you, and yours, God’s Beloveds. May you prosper in His Way, and live life abundantly in His perfect health.
Poppa B.