John 4:35

"Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work."

Key Reflection

In John 4:35, Jesus emphasizes that His primary focus is on accomplishing the divine mission given to Him by the Father. This statement underscores a profound shift from physical sustenance to spiritual and redemptive work. The verse reflects the cultural context of first-century Judaism, where material well-being was often equated with divine favor. By declaring that His "food" is to fulfill God's will and complete His mission, Jesus highlights the priority of divine service over earthly comforts, setting a profound example for His disciples and followers.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 35. Say not ye. This seems to have been a proverb. Ye say--that is, men say. Four months and, &c. The common time from sowing the seed to the harvest, in Judea, was about four months. The meaning of this passage may be thus expressed: "The husband-man, when he sows his seed, is compelled to wait a considerable period before it produces a crop. He is encouraged in sowing it; he expects fruit; his labour is lightened by that expectation; but it is not immediate--it is remote. But it is not so with my preaching. The seed has already sprung up. Scarce was it sown before it produced an abundant harvest.

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