Lent IV- The Prophet That Should Come- John 6:1-14

The Gospel for the Fourth Sunday in Lent is from St. John 6:1-14. These verses form one of the four accounts of the miraculous Feeding of Five Thousand, an event found in all the gospels. These accounts have several themes., but, this time, I would simply focus on one theme that is sometimes neglected.  That theme, especially noticeable in St. John's presentation, is a Messianic theme related to Moses. The passage contains Messianic allusions comparing Jesus with Moses. 

At the beginning of John 6, Jesus goes up on a mountain or hill to teach the people. This is a reminder of Moses who went up on the mount and came down to proclaim God’s Law to the Israelites. Providing food for God’s people in the wilderness is also reminiscent of what Moses did. And at the end of our passage, the people acknowledge Jesus as "that prophet that should come into the world" (John 6:14). In Deuteronomy 18:15, Moses predicted that God would raise up a prophet like him and that Israel must listen to that new Moses.

 In the first century, being a new Moses was one of the roles expected from the Messiah, and several New Testament passages see Jesus fulfilling this prophecy. Jesus brings the last great revelation from God the Father. He restates, re-applies, and deepens the divine Law. As the Transfiguration implies, Jesus completes and supersedes Moses and the other prophets. As Hebrews 3:3 says, “For this man [that is, Jesus] was accounted of more glory than Moses….” In other words, Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah. He is the new and greater Moses. He brings the ultimate message from the Lord God, and we must listen to Him and heed Him in all that we think, say, and do. 

Being more deliberate in hearing and obeying Jesus as the greatest prophet and Messianic king is one of the great purposes of Lent. During Lent, many Christians focus on devotional preparations and spiritual disciplines. And we do need renewed dedication in these matters. Yet, our Gospel from John 6 reminds us that renewal is not just about our efforts. Lent is about focusing on Jesus. He is the great prophet, priest, and king. He reveals God’s will, and He seeks to save us. So in faith, we must heed Him and accept His guidance.