JOHN 6:25–29
THE WORK GOD DESIRES: BELIEF IN THE ONE HE SENT
Text – John 6:25–29
25 And when they found him across the sea they said to him, “Rabbi, when did you get here?”
26 Jesus answered them and said, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you are looking for me not because you saw signs but because you ate the loaves and were filled.
27 Do not work for food that perishes but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him the Father, God, has set his seal.”
28 So they said to him, “What can we do to accomplish the works of God?”
29 Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in the one he sent.”
Historical and Jewish Context
In first-century Judaism, religious life was often expressed in terms of “works,” especially obedience to the Law and its commandments. The crowd’s question reflects a deeply ingrained belief that righteousness was achieved through actions prescribed by the Torah. Jesus challenges this framework by redirecting attention from human effort to divine gift. The idea of God “sealing” someone signifies divine authorization and ownership, a concept familiar from Jewish prophetic traditions. The crowd’s fixation on bread reflects Israel’s memory of manna and a hope for continued material provision.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage clarifies the relationship between faith and works in Catholic theology. Jesus does not reject good works, but He establishes faith as the foundation of all genuine obedience. Belief in the one sent by the Father is itself the work God desires, made possible by grace. Catholic teaching affirms that salvation begins with faith and is lived out through works empowered by grace. The Son of Man giving food that endures points toward the Eucharist, where Christ offers eternal life through Himself.
Parallels in Scripture
Habakkuk 2:4 – The righteous shall live by faith.
Isaiah 55:2 – Seeking lasting nourishment from God.
Romans 1:17 – Faith as the path to righteousness.
Galatians 2:16 – Justification through faith in Christ.
James 2:17 – Faith made alive through works.
Key Terms
Food that perishes – Temporary satisfaction.
Food that endures – Eternal life given by Christ.
Seal of the Father – Divine authority and approval.
Works of God – Human response rooted in faith.
Believe – Trustful acceptance leading to obedience.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This Gospel is proclaimed during Ordinary Time and is frequently used in catechesis on faith, grace, and the Eucharist. The Church presents this passage to teach that belief in Christ is the starting point of Christian life and mission.
Conclusion
John 6:25–29 reorients the search for God from human effort to divine gift. Jesus reveals that the work God desires above all is faith in the One He has sent. From this faith flows a life nourished by eternal food.
Reflection
Do I rely more on my own efforts than on trust in Christ?
Is my faith the foundation of my actions?
How does belief in Jesus shape my daily choices?
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, You invite me to seek the food that endures forever. Strengthen my faith in You, the One sent by the Father, and help me to live a life rooted in trust, obedience, and love. Amen.