King James Version

What Does John 6:48 Mean?

John 6:48 in the King James Version says “I am that bread of life. — study this verse from John chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

I am that bread of life.

John 6:48 · KJV


Context

46

Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father.

47

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.

48

I am that bread of life.

49

Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead.

50

This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof , and not die.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Christ repeats and reinforces 'I am that bread of life' for emphasis, developing the contrast with wilderness manna. This claim—to be the bread that gives eternal life—is either blasphemy or truth. The exclusive article 'that' indicates Christ alone satisfies spiritual need. This statement anticipates the Last Supper and develops John's incarnational theology: the Word made flesh becomes spiritual sustenance for believers.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Jewish listeners would immediately connect this to Exodus 16 and God's provision of manna. Jesus claims superiority to Moses' miracle, which many Jews believed the Messiah would repeat. The synagogue in Capernaum (v. 59) has been excavated, possibly the setting for this discourse.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you 'feed' on Christ daily as your spiritual sustenance?
  2. What does it mean that Christ is THE bread, not merely A bread, of life?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 6 words
ἐγώ1 of 6

I

G1473

i, me

εἰμι2 of 6

am

G1510

i exist (used only when emphatic)

3 of 6
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἄρτος4 of 6

that bread

G740

bread (as raised) or a loaf

τῆς5 of 6
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ζωῆς6 of 6

of life

G2222

life (literally or figuratively)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

John 6:48 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to John 6:48 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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