John 6:66

KJV

From that [time] many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

KJV (with Strong's)

From {G1537} that {G5127} time many {G4183} of his {G846} disciples {G3101} went {G565} back {G1519}{G3694}, and {G2532} walked {G4043} no more {G3765} with {G3326} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

From this time on, many of his talmidim turned back and no longer traveled around with him.

Berean Standard Bible

From that time on many of His disciples turned back and no longer walked with Him.

American Standard Version

Upon this many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 6:66 marks a pivotal and somber moment in Jesus' ministry, revealing the profound cost of authentic discipleship. Following His challenging "Bread of Life" discourse, which many found difficult to accept, a significant number of those who had previously identified as His followers chose to abandon Him, effectively ceasing their active participation in His mission and returning to their former ways of life. This verse underscores the distinction between superficial interest and genuine, persevering faith, highlighting that not all who begin the journey with Christ are willing to embrace the deeper, often demanding, truths of His teaching.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Jesus' deeply challenging and often misunderstood "Bread of Life" discourse, delivered in the synagogue at Capernaum (cf. [John 6:22-59](/john/6-22-59 "John 6:22-59 - The Bread of Life Discourse")). In this discourse, Jesus declared Himself to be the true bread from heaven, superior to the manna in the wilderness. He then escalated His teaching, stating the necessity of "eating His flesh and drinking His blood" for eternal life ([John 6:53](/john/6-53 "John 6:53 - Eating His Flesh and Drinking His Blood")). These words, meant to convey a profound spiritual union and identification with His sacrificial work, were literalized and stumbled over by many of His listeners, including those who had been following Him. The preceding verses explicitly state the disciples' murmuring and questioning of the teaching's difficulty ([John 6:60-61](/john/6-60-61 "John 6:60-61 - Disciples Murmur")). Jesus' response in [John 6:63](/john/6-63 "John 6:63 - Spirit Gives Life") clarifies that "the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life," indicating a spiritual rather than carnal understanding was required. Thus, [John 6:66](/john/6-66 "John 6:66 - Many Disciples Turn Away") serves as the immediate consequence and stark culmination of this spiritual sifting, revealing who truly belonged.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Capernaum, a bustling fishing village on the Sea of Galilee, was a hub of Jesus' early Galilean ministry. It was here that many of His miracles were performed and much of His teaching delivered. The Jewish audience, steeped in Old Testament sacrificial laws and dietary restrictions, would have found the concept of "eating flesh and drinking blood" profoundly shocking and even blasphemous if interpreted literally, as it violated Mosaic law (cf. [Leviticus 17:10-14](/leviticus/17-10-14 "Leviticus 17:10-14 - Prohibition Against Eating Blood")). Their expectation of the Messiah was often a political deliverer, one who would provide physical bread and overthrow Roman rule, not a spiritual sacrifice demanding such radical identification. The term "disciples" (Greek: _mathētēs_) at this time referred to a broader group of followers or students who attached themselves to a rabbi, not exclusively the inner circle of the Twelve. These individuals had likely been attracted by Jesus' miracles (like the feeding of the five thousand in [John 6:1-14](/john/6-1-14 "John 6:1-14 - Feeding the Five Thousand")) and His initial teachings, seeking perhaps physical provision or a political Messiah. Their departure highlights the clash between their earthly expectations and Jesus' heavenly, spiritual reality.

* **Key Themes:** [John 6:66](/john/6-66 "John 6:66 - Many Disciples Turn Away") powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the Gospel of John and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it starkly illustrates the **cost of discipleship**. True following of Jesus demands more than superficial interest or a desire for physical benefits; it requires radical commitment and an embrace of challenging truths, even when they are difficult to comprehend or accept (cf. [Luke 14:26-33](/luke/14-26-33 "Luke 14:26-33 - The Cost of Discipleship")). Secondly, it highlights the theme of **true versus superficial faith**. Many were drawn to Jesus for what He could offer physically, but when His teaching turned to spiritual realities and the necessity of His sacrificial work, their faith proved shallow and conditional. This contrasts sharply with the enduring faith of the Twelve, particularly Peter's confession in [John 6:68-69](/john/6-68-69 "John 6:68-69 - Peter's Confession")). Thirdly, it touches upon the **sovereignty of God and human responsibility** in salvation, as Jesus had previously stated, "No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him" ([John 6:44](/john/6-44 "John 6:44 - Drawn by the Father")). While these disciples chose to turn away, their inability to grasp His truth was also tied to a lack of divine enablement. Finally, it reinforces the **nature of Jesus' identity** as the divine Son of God, whose words carry ultimate authority and whose mission transcends earthly expectations, demanding a spiritual response.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **disciples (Greek, _mathētḗs_):** From the verb _manthanō_ (to learn), this term refers to a learner or pupil. In this context, it signifies individuals who had formally or informally attached themselves to Jesus as His students or followers. The use of "many of his disciples" (G4183 _polýs_ meaning "many" or "much") indicates a significant number from the larger group of followers, not just casual observers, but those who had made some level of commitment to Him. Their turning away is therefore a more profound rejection than if it were merely the general crowd.
* **back (Greek, _opísō_):** This adverb literally means "to the back" or "aback," indicating a turning away or reversal of direction. When combined with the verb "went" (Greek, _apérchomai_, to go off/depart), "went back" (Greek, _apēlthon eis ta opisō_) denotes a decisive withdrawal. It implies a return to a former state, a renunciation of their previous commitment to follow Jesus, and a physical and spiritual departure from His company and teachings.
* **walked (Greek, _peripatéō_):** This verb literally means "to tread all around" or "walk at large," but figuratively, it means "to live, deport oneself, or follow (as a companion or votary)." The phrase "walked no more with him" (G3765 _oukéti_ meaning "no longer") signifies the cessation of their active association and identification with Jesus. It's a comprehensive statement about the end of their discipleship, implying they no longer lived according to His teachings or accompanied Him on His mission.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"From that [time] many of his disciples":** This clause establishes the immediate context of the departure. "That time" refers directly to the period following Jesus' "Bread of Life" discourse, which proved to be a stumbling block for many. The phrase "many of his disciples" is crucial, indicating that a significant portion of His established followers—not just curious onlookers—found His teaching too challenging and chose to leave. It highlights the widespread nature of the rejection.
* **"went back":** This phrase describes the action of these disciples. It conveys a physical turning away from Jesus and a return to their previous lives, beliefs, or associations. Spiritually, it signifies a renunciation of their commitment to Him and His teachings. It's a deliberate act of disengagement from the path they had chosen to walk with Him.
* **"and walked no more with him":** This final clause emphasizes the permanence and totality of their departure. "Walked with him" is a common biblical metaphor for companionship, discipleship, and living in accordance with someone's ways (cf. [Genesis 5:24](/genesis/5-24 "Genesis 5:24 - Enoch Walked with God")). "No more" signifies a complete cessation of this relationship. They ceased to be His active followers, no longer aligning their lives with His mission, teachings, or presence. This is not a temporary lapse but a definitive end to their discipleship.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices. **Irony** is prominent, as those who initially followed Jesus, drawn by His miracles and perhaps the promise of earthly benefits, ultimately turn away when confronted with the deeper, more demanding spiritual truths. Their initial proximity to the Messiah contrasts sharply with their ultimate rejection. **Symbolism** is also evident in the phrase "walked no more with him." Walking with someone is a common biblical metaphor for fellowship, discipleship, and shared journey. Thus, their cessation of "walking" symbolizes the termination of their spiritual relationship and commitment to Jesus. The verse also uses **Understatement** in its stark simplicity; "went back, and walked no more with him" succinctly conveys a profound spiritual tragedy and a widespread apostasy without extensive elaboration, allowing the gravity of the event to resonate through its directness. Furthermore, there is a clear **Contrast** between the superficial adherence of these departing disciples and the enduring, committed faith of the Twelve, who remained with Jesus (as seen in the subsequent verses).

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 6:66 serves as a stark theological commentary on the nature of true faith and the reality of apostasy. It highlights that genuine discipleship is not merely intellectual assent or a pursuit of temporal benefits, but a spiritual commitment rooted in a willingness to accept Jesus' radical claims, even when they are challenging or counter-cultural. The departure of "many" underscores that the path to salvation is narrow and that not all who begin the journey will persevere. This event demonstrates the sifting work of God's Word, which exposes the true condition of the heart, revealing those who are truly "of God" and those who are merely interested. It also reinforces the divine prerogative in drawing people to Christ, as Jesus stated earlier in the chapter, "No man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father" ([John 6:65](/john/6-65 "John 6:65 - No One Can Come Unless Given by the Father")). This does not negate human responsibility but emphasizes that true faith is ultimately a gift and a work of God's grace.

* [Matthew 7:13-14](/matthew/7-13-14 "Matthew 7:13-14 - The Narrow and Wide Gates") - Illustrates that the path to life is narrow and few find it.
* [Hebrews 10:39](/hebrews/10-39 "Hebrews 10:39 - Perseverance of the Saints") - Contrasts those who draw back to perdition with those who believe to the saving of the soul.
* [1 John 2:19](/1_john/2-19 "1 John 2:19 - They Went Out From Us") - Explains that those who depart were never truly of the community of believers.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This somber verse offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. It challenges us to examine the depth and authenticity of our own faith. Are we following Jesus for what we can gain—comfort, prosperity, social acceptance—or are we committed to Him even when His teachings are difficult, counter-cultural, or demand personal sacrifice? The "Bread of Life" discourse was a test of spiritual discernment and commitment; similarly, life presents us with moments where our allegiance to Christ is tested. True discipleship requires perseverance through hardship, misunderstanding, and the allure of returning to a "former way of life." We are called to cling to Christ and His words, recognizing that only He has the "words of eternal life" ([John 6:68](/john/6-68 "John 6:68 - Peter's Confession")). This verse serves as a sober reminder that while many may begin the journey, not all will endure to the end. It should prompt us to cultivate a deep, abiding faith that is rooted in spiritual understanding and unwavering devotion, rather than superficial interest or conditional commitment.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "hard sayings" of Jesus or challenging aspects of Christian discipleship might cause people to turn away today?**
* **How can I ensure my faith is rooted in genuine commitment to Christ, rather than superficial interest or seeking personal gain?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to "go back" or "walk no more with Him" when faced with difficulty or misunderstanding?**
* **What does Peter's response in [John 6:68](/john/6-68 "John 6:68 - Peter's Confession") teach me about remaining faithful when others depart?**

### FAQ
**What does "disciples" mean in this context, and why did so many turn away?**

Answer: In this context, "disciples" (Greek: _mathētḗs_) refers to a broader group of followers who had attached themselves to Jesus as students or adherents, beyond just the twelve apostles. Many of them were likely drawn by His miracles, His ability to provide food (as seen in the feeding of the five thousand in [John 6:1-14](/john/6-1-14 "John 6:1-14 - Feeding the Five Thousand")), or their expectation of a political Messiah. They turned away because Jesus' "Bread of Life" discourse, particularly His teaching about eating His flesh and drinking His blood ([John 6:53](/john/6-53 "John 6:53 - Eating His Flesh and Drinking His Blood")), was spiritually challenging and difficult for them to comprehend or accept. They likely interpreted His words literally, finding them scandalous and blasphemous, rather than understanding their profound spiritual meaning of identifying with His sacrificial death and receiving eternal life through Him. Their faith was superficial, based on external benefits rather than a deep, spiritual commitment to His true identity and mission.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[John 6:66](/john/6-66 "John 6:66 - Many Disciples Turn Away") profoundly underscores the exclusivity and demanding nature of following Christ, foreshadowing the ultimate sifting that occurs through His atoning work and the call to genuine faith. The turning away of these "disciples" illuminates the truth that not all who outwardly associate with Jesus truly belong to Him, a theme echoed in Jesus' later teachings about the narrow gate and the two paths (cf. [Matthew 7:13-14](/matthew/7-13-14 "Matthew 7:13-14 - The Narrow and Wide Gates")). Their departure highlights the necessity of a spiritual rebirth and divine enablement to truly embrace Christ, as Jesus Himself stated that no one can come to Him unless the Father draws them ([John 6:44](/john/6-44 "John 6:44 - Drawn by the Father")). This event sets the stage for the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on the cross, which would be an even greater stumbling block to many, yet the very means of salvation for those given to Him by the Father (cf. [1 Corinthians 1:23](/1_corinthians/1-23 "1 Corinthians 1:23 - Christ Crucified, a Stumbling Block")). Unlike these departing disciples, those who are truly Christ's sheep will hear His voice and follow Him, and He promises that they will never perish, nor will anyone snatch them out of His hand or His Father's hand (cf. [John 10:27-29](/john/10-27-29 "John 10:27-29 - My Sheep Hear My Voice")). The perseverance of the saints, secured by the Holy Spirit, stands in stark contrast to the apostasy witnessed in [John 6:66](/john/6-66 "John 6:66 - Many Disciples Turn Away"), affirming that true discipleship is a work of God from beginning to end, culminating in eternal life with the Christ whom they faithfully followed.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 9:62

And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

1 John 2:19

They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would [no doubt] have continued with us: but [they went out], that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.

John 6:60

¶ Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard [this], said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?

Hebrews 10:38

Now the just shall live by faith: but if [any man] draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.

2 Timothy 4:10

For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.

John 8:31

¶ Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, [then] are ye my disciples indeed;

Matthew 19:22

But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.