Understanding John 6:63

Verse: "It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life."

Overview: In John 6:63, Jesus emphasizes the spiritual essence of His teachings, asserting that true life comes from the Spirit rather than the material world. This verse is pivotal in understanding the nature of Christ's message as transcending physical existence.

Meaning and Interpretations

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes that the quickening of the spirit refers to the spiritual awakening that occurs through divine words. The 'flesh' represents the human nature that is devoid of spiritual vitality. He highlights the importance of relying on the teachings of Christ, which provide true sustenance for the soul.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes interprets this verse to mean that while the physical body becomes inert, the words of Christ impart life and essence to believers. He underscores that the essence of Christ's message offers a deep, abiding life that transcends earthly existence.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke notes that the 'spirit' mentioned indicates the active and vivifying power of the Holy Spirit. Clarke further discusses how the teachings of Jesus are life-giving, contrasting with the limitations of physical sustenance.

Bible Verse Cross-References

John 6:63 can be cross-referenced with several significant Bible verses that reinforce the themes of spirit, life, and the significance of Christ’s words:

• Romans 8:11: "But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you." - This verse connects the life-giving nature of the Spirit to believers.
• 2 Corinthians 3:6: "Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life." - This emphasizes the distinction between the old covenant and the vivifying essence of the new covenant.
• 1 Peter 1:23: "Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever." - Highlighting the enduring life found in the Word of God.
• Matthew 4:4: "But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." - A clear link establishing the importance of divine words for spiritual sustenance.
• Hebrews 4:12: "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword..." - Points to the active and transformative power of God's Word.
• John 7:38: "He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water." - A promise of life-giving Spirit to those who believe in Christ.
• John 10:10: "I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." - Jesus affirms His mission is to provide life.
• Galatians 5:16-25: - Discussing living by the Spirit versus the flesh, reinforcing the message of John 6:63 that spiritual vitality is paramount.
• 1 John 5:12: "He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life." - A profound assertion connecting eternal life with faith in Christ.
• Philippians 1:21: "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." - Paul’s declaration reveals the intrinsic link between Christ and true life.

Thematic Connections

This verse engages significantly with numerous themes found throughout Scripture, often drawing parallels between the Old and New Testament. The essential message centers around the dichotomy of spirit and flesh, which resonates through various biblical texts:

• Life in the Spirit: The New Testament consistently emphasizes living a life guided by the Holy Spirit, found in Galatians and Romans.
• Words of Wisdom: Proverbs speaks of the importance of God's words, echoing the sentiment found in John 6:63.
• Jesus as the Bread of Life: The immediate context of the chapter deals with Jesus declaring Himself as the Bread of Life (John 6:35), linking it to spiritual sustenance.
• Transformation through the Word: The transformative power of God's Word as noted in several epistles ties into the life-giving nature described in John 6:63.

Conclusion

John 6:63 invites profound reflection on the nature of life and spiritual vitality in Christ. The engagement of the 'spirit' versus 'flesh' sets up a fundamental framework for understanding spiritual growth and the essence of Jesus’ teachings. Readers are encouraged to explore these interconnected verses and themes, as they provide a rich tapestry for deeper understanding of Scripture. The cross-referenced verses serve as tools for Bible cross-referencing, enriching the study experience and elucidating Christ's message.