Why do some people believe in Jesus while others remain in unbelief? In John 6, Jesus gives us two truths that we must hold together: God is sovereign in salvation, and we are responsible to believe.

Jesus teaches that the Father gives a people to the Son, that everyone the Father gives will come to Christ, and that Christ will never cast out or lose those who come to him. Yet Jesus also gives us a clear command and invitation: look to him and believe.

This passage gives both humility and assurance to the Christian—and a clear call to faith for those who have not yet believed.

Outline

Divine Sovereignty — The Father Gives a People to Christ
“All that the Father gives me will come to me.” — John 6:37
Human Responsibility — Come to Christ and Believe
“Everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life.” — John 6:40
Divine Sovereignty — Christ Will Lose None
“I should lose nothing of all that he has given me.” — John 6:39
Human Responsibility — Believe in Jesus
“Whoever believes has eternal life.” — John 6:47

Questions for Reflection

Why does Jesus say that some people do not believe?
What does John 6 teach about God's sovereignty in salvation?
What does John 6 teach about our responsibility to believe?
Why should God's sovereignty eliminate boasting?
How does Christ's promise that he will lose none of his people give you assurance?
If you have not yet trusted in Christ, what is Jesus calling you to do?
How should these truths affect the way we pray for unbelieving friends and family?
How can we hold together God's sovereignty and human responsibility without denying either one?