John 6:28
“Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?”
This verse is part of a larger conversation between Jesus and a group of people who had witnessed Him performing miracles, particularly the feeding of the five thousand with just five loaves of bread and two fish (John 6:1-15). Following this miraculous event, the crowd sought Jesus, and He addressed their motives and desires.
In verse 26, Jesus tells the people that they were seeking Him not because of the signs they saw, but because they had eaten of the loaves and were filled. He urges them not to labor for the food that perishes but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give them.
In response to Jesus’ words, the people ask Him in verse 28, “What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?” Their question reveals their desire to know what actions or works they should perform in order to gain eternal life or to please God.
In Jesus’ reply, He focuses on faith. Let’s continue reading the subsequent verses for context. John 6:29 (KJV) states:
“Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.”
Jesus emphasizes that the work God requires of them is to believe in Him, the One whom God has sent. It’s important to note that Jesus often emphasized the centrality of faith in Him and the work of God.
In this particular instance, the people were seeking to earn God’s favor through their own efforts or works. However, Jesus redirects their attention away from their works and towards a personal relationship of faith in Him. He highlights that believing in Him is the key to experiencing the work of God in their lives and receiving eternal life.
This passage teaches us that salvation and eternal life are not earned through our own efforts or good deeds but are received through faith in Jesus Christ. It’s not about what we can do for God, but rather what God has done for us through sending His Son to save us.
It’s also worth noting that while faith is the primary work required for salvation, it is not a one-time event. True faith in Jesus involves an ongoing relationship with Him, trusting in Him, and following Him daily.
In summary, John 6:28 (KJV) reveals the people’s desire to know what works they should do to please God. Jesus responds by pointing them to faith in Him as the work God requires. It reminds us that salvation is a gift received through faith in Jesus, rather than something earned through our own works.
