Symbols to Die For

We are leaving behind the crashing kings of 2 Chronicles and beginning a walk with Jesus over the next few weeks at EverGreen.  We are going to listen in as he teaches us essential truths about himself using symbols like bread, light, and a sheep gate.  One of the wonders of symbols is that they can bring so many things to mind and challenge us to think deeply and differently.  When it comes to Jesus the symbols that he uses to describe himself put him in such a place that finally those in power put him to death, thus the title of the series "Symbols to Die For".  

The first symbol that Jesus gives us is bread.  He tells us "I am the bread of life".  The words are connected with Jesus feeding the 5000.  They are rich words that connect with God the Father feeding the people manna in the desert and with Moses as the leader.  But what lies behind all of the story in John 6 is a deep longing for a political revolution.  The people sit on the hillside waiting for Jesus to declare a revolution.  His failure to do so and his call to eat his body and drink his blood cause the crowds to abandon him.  

One other thing.  When Jesus says "I am"  (The Greek is ego eimi, and literally says "I, I am") is a declaration by Jesus that he is at the very least connected to Yahweh who's name means "I am".  

So enjoy a good read for this week from John 6 and be ready for "Symbols to Die For".