TRV
John 6:66
Bible Versions
From that [time] many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.
From this time on, many of his talmidim turned back and no longer traveled around with him.
From that time on many of His disciples turned back and no longer walked with Him.
Upon this many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.
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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.
John 6:66 (KJV)
"From that [time] many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him."
Commentary
This verse marks a significant turning point in the ministry of Jesus, particularly as recorded by John. It follows immediately after Jesus' challenging discourse in the synagogue at Capernaum, where he spoke about himself as the "bread of life" and the necessity of eating his flesh and drinking his blood (John 6:53). These words were difficult for many to accept (John 6:60).
The phrase "many of his disciples" indicates that this was not just the general crowd, but people who had been following Jesus, perhaps even closely associated with the core group. The term "disciples" here is used broadly, not necessarily limited to the Twelve, but encompassing a larger group of followers.
To "went back" (Greek: apēlthon eis ta opisō) means they turned away and returned to their former way of life or beliefs. They effectively abandoned their commitment to following Jesus. "Walked no more with him" emphasizes the cessation of their journey alongside Him as His students and followers. They stopped identifying with Him and His mission.
This event highlights the cost of discipleship and serves as a test of genuine faith. While many were attracted by Jesus' miracles and teachings initially, the deeper, more challenging truths required a faith that went beyond superficial interest or seeking physical benefits. This verse shows that not all who begin following Jesus persevere, especially when the path becomes difficult or the teachings are hard to understand or accept.
It is a somber reminder that following Christ demands commitment and perseverance, even when faced with hardship or confusing truths. True discipleship involves clinging to Him even when others turn away.