The verse above has to be one of the most disturbing verses in the Bible. Can you ever imagine doing what thousands of people did on this occasion? Can you ever imagine choosing to no longer walk with Jesus?

Sadly, this happens with Christians far too often. Why does it happen?

His Teaching

  • This is at the core of why thousands of people stop following Jesus in John 6:66. After miraculously feeding the people, the next day, Jesus challenged them to understand that following Him requires commitment (John 6:26-35, 47-58). Many of the people who heard His sermon did not like that message (John 6:66-68). But the Lord didn’t compromise or water down His message!
  • What are we going to do when we are challenged by the teaching of Jesus?
  • What are we going to do when it requires that we do some tough things (Matthew 5:43-44; 7:12; 18:21-35; 19:9)? Many disciples foolishly choose to leave Jesus.

Selfishness 

  • While Jesus sacrificed much for us, many were unwilling to sacrifice for Him (Mark 10:45).
  • Many Christians follow in the footsteps of Demas (2 Timothy 4:10).
  • Some leave Jesus to pursue an immoral relationship or to consume themselves in their careers. Others leave Jesus because they are unwilling to give up friends who negatively influence them (1 Corinthians 15:33).
  • When Jesus is not first place in our lives, the devil will start drawing us away from Him.

Christians

  • Some people leave Jesus because they have a falling out with another Christian. What did Jesus do to them?
  • Others leave because they feel neglected by their spiritual family. Again, what did Jesus do to them?
  • It is unreasonable to take our frustrations with another disciple out on Jesus. Jesus has only done right by us (John 3:16; 15:13; Mark 10:45).
  • Whenever we have a problem with a fellow disciple, we need to practice Matthew 18:15. We never need to abandon the Lord!

Pride

  • Many disciples stop appreciating just how much they need Jesus.
  • Pride was the core of Judas’ betrayal of Jesus (Mark 14:1-11).
  • Pride was the chief reason why the scribes and Pharisees rejected Jesus (John 9:35-41). These men were never willing to humble themselves and acknowledge Him as the Messiah.
  • The apostles understood the truth about their need for Jesus (John 6:67-69).

Conclusion:

Without Jesus, we have nowhere else to turn. He is the only way to heaven!