Some people may believe that theology isn’t that important. Allow me to illustrate this with a question. What would it take for you and me to effectively repair a car engine? First, we would need to study and master all the engine systems. Second, we need to learn how the systems interact with each other.  Last, we need to be mentored by a well-trained mechanic until we become proficient. If these things are addressed, we may improve the engine problem instead of improving it.

Good biblical theology is essential because it forms a biblical worldview through which we may live for God’s glory. This takes disciplined work on our part. We need the illumination and understanding provided by the Holy Spirit. The passage is the continuation of Jesus interacting with the crowd, following Him to get a free lunch again. Some of the religious leaders were present also.

To recap, Jesus declared Himself to be the Bread of Heaven sent by His Father to do the will of His Father. When Jesus said, “I Am…” He affirmed that He was fully God and fully man. Now Jesus describes eternal life (salvation by faith through Christ) from His Father’s and our perspectives. Let’s look at the passage and investigate what may appear as contradictions in Jesus’ teaching.