John 6:67

KJV

Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G3767} said {G2036} Jesus {G2424} unto the twelve {G1427},{G3361} Will {G2309} ye {G5210} also {G2532} go away {G5217}?

Complete Jewish Bible

So Yeshua said to the Twelve, “Don’t you want to leave too?”

Berean Standard Bible

So Jesus asked the Twelve, “Do you want to leave too?”

American Standard Version

Jesus said therefore unto the twelve, Would ye also go away?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Following a profound and challenging discourse on His identity as the "Bread of Life," Jesus confronts His remaining inner circle, the twelve apostles, with a poignant and deeply personal question: "Will ye also go away?" This query, posed in the wake of widespread defection among His broader disciples, serves not as an expression of ignorance, but as a direct test of their faith, loyalty, and willingness to persevere in the face of difficult truths and the high cost of true discipleship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** John 6:67 stands at a critical juncture in the Gospel of John, immediately following the climactic "Bread of Life" discourse (found in [John 6:25-59](/john/6-25-59 "John 6:25-59 - The Bread of Life Discourse")). Jesus' teachings about eating His flesh and drinking His blood, though spiritual in their intended meaning, were widely misunderstood and deemed "hard" by many of His followers ([John 6:60](/john/6-60 "John 6:60 - Disciples find Jesus' teaching hard")). This led to a significant exodus, as "many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him" ([John 6:66](/john/6-66 "John 6:66 - Many disciples turn away")). It is in this atmosphere of abandonment and spiritual sifting that Jesus turns to the core group of the twelve, isolating them for a direct challenge to their commitment and understanding. The question sets the stage for Peter's pivotal confession in the subsequent verses ([John 6:68-69](/john/6-68-69 "John 6:68-69 - Peter's Confession of Faith")), highlighting the contrast between superficial adherence and genuine, enduring faith.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for this discourse was Capernaum, a significant center of Jesus' Galilean ministry. The Jewish audience, accustomed to literal interpretations of religious law and prophecy, struggled to grasp the metaphorical and spiritual depth of Jesus' claims to be the "Bread of Life" and the necessity of "eating His flesh and drinking His blood." Their understanding was rooted in Mosaic Law and traditional dietary customs, making the idea of consuming flesh and blood deeply offensive and ritually unclean (cf. [Leviticus 17:10-14](/leviticus/17-10-14 "Leviticus 17:10-14 - Prohibition against consuming blood")). Furthermore, the expectation of a political Messiah who would deliver Israel from Roman rule contrasted sharply with Jesus' emphasis on spiritual nourishment and eternal life, leading to disillusionment among those seeking temporal benefits. The widespread departure of followers reflects the common pattern of a movement losing adherents when its demands become too radical or its leader fails to meet popular expectations.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in John's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores the **Cost of Discipleship**, demonstrating that following Jesus is not a path of ease or popularity, but one that demands unwavering commitment, especially when His teachings challenge conventional understanding or societal norms. It highlights the crucial theme of **Faith and Perseverance**, compelling the disciples to examine the depth of their belief and their willingness to endure when the way is difficult. The question also serves as a test of **Loyalty to Christ**, distinguishing those who follow for superficial reasons from those who recognize His unique divine authority and the eternal life He offers. This sifting process reveals the true nature of belief, emphasizing that genuine faith is not merely intellectual assent but a profound, enduring trust in Jesus as the one with "the words of eternal life" ([John 6:68](/john/6-68 "John 6:68 - Peter's Confession")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **said (Greek, _épō_):** From G2036, a primary verb used for speaking or saying, often implying a direct, authoritative utterance. Here, it denotes Jesus' intentional and deliberate act of addressing the twelve, not in casual conversation, but with a weighty question that demands a response. It signifies a moment of direct confrontation and testing.
* **twelve (Greek, _dṓdeka_):** From G1427, meaning "two and ten." This specific number is highly significant, representing the inner circle of apostles chosen by Jesus. They are the foundation of the new Israel, distinct from the larger crowd of disciples who had just departed. Jesus' question is directed to this select group, emphasizing their unique position and the higher expectations placed upon them.
* **go away (Greek, _hypágō_):** From G5217, meaning "to lead (oneself) under," "withdraw," or "retire (as if sinking out of sight)." It conveys the idea of departing or leaving, often with a sense of quiet withdrawal or abandonment. This is the same verb used in [John 6:66](/john/6-66 "John 6:66 - Many disciples turn back") to describe the departure of the other disciples, creating a direct parallel and highlighting the choice now presented to the twelve. The accompanying particle _mḗ_ (G3361), a particle of qualified negation, implies that Jesus expects a negative answer, framing the question as an appeal for them *not* to go away.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then said Jesus unto the twelve,"**: This opening clause establishes the shift in focus from the departing crowds to Jesus' most intimate followers. The word "Then" (G3767, _oûn_) indicates a consequence or continuation of the previous events—the widespread defection. Jesus, ever purposeful, initiates this direct address, singling out the "twelve" as the recipients of His profound inquiry. This highlights their unique position and the gravity of the moment.
* **"Will ye also go away?"**: This is the heart of the verse, a piercing interrogative that cuts to the core of their commitment. The inclusion of "also" (G2532, _kaí_) is crucial, drawing a stark contrast between the many who had just abandoned Him and the select few who remained. Jesus' question, framed with the particle _mḗ_ (G3361), implicitly expresses His hope that they will *not* go away, yet it respects their free will. It is a challenge to their resolve, forcing them to articulate their loyalty in the face of adversity and unpopular truth. The verb "will" (G2309, _thélō_) emphasizes their subjective choice and inclination, asking if their desire or determination is to follow the path of abandonment.

#### Literary Devices
John 6:67 employs several powerful literary devices. The most prominent is **Interrogation**, as Jesus poses a direct question that demands a personal and immediate response from the twelve. This is not a rhetorical question, but a genuine test of their faith and loyalty, creating dramatic tension. There is also a strong element of **Contrast**, highlighted by the word "also." Jesus explicitly contrasts the actions of the departing multitude with the potential actions of the twelve, forcing them to choose which group they will align with. This contrast underscores the unique nature of their calling and the higher stakes involved. The verse carries significant **Poignancy**, as Jesus, having just experienced widespread rejection, turns to His closest companions with a vulnerable yet resolute query, revealing the emotional weight of His ministry and the loneliness of divine truth. Finally, there is an implied **Test** or **Sifting**, where Jesus' question acts as a crucible, separating those with superficial allegiance from those with true, enduring faith.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 6:67 serves as a profound theological moment, underscoring the demanding nature of true discipleship and the necessity of a faith that perseveres beyond superficial understanding or popular appeal. Jesus' question forces His closest followers to confront the reality that His teachings, though offering eternal life, often run counter to worldly wisdom and comfort. It highlights the sovereignty of Christ in sifting His followers, revealing who genuinely believes in His divine authority and unique message of salvation, regardless of the cost. This moment anticipates the ongoing challenge for believers across generations to remain steadfast when faced with difficult truths, societal pressure, or the temptation to abandon the narrow path.

* [Luke 14:25-33](/luke/14-25-33 "Luke 14:25-33 - The Cost of Discipleship")
* [Matthew 10:37-39](/matthew/10-37-39 "Matthew 10:37-39 - Loyalty to Christ")
* [Hebrews 10:39](/hebrews/10-39 "Hebrews 10:39 - Perseverance of Faith")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John 6:67 resonates deeply with the contemporary believer, serving as a timeless challenge to the authenticity and depth of our faith. In a world that often seeks comfort, convenience, and popular affirmation, Jesus' question reminds us that true discipleship frequently entails embracing truths that are difficult, counter-cultural, or even offensive to prevailing norms. It compels us to examine our motivations for following Christ: are we drawn by the promise of blessings, or by an unwavering conviction in His unique identity as the Son of God and the source of eternal life? This verse calls us to a radical commitment, urging us to remain steadfast even when others abandon the faith, when our understanding is challenged, or when the path seems arduous. It is a call to choose loyalty to Christ above all else, recognizing that only He possesses the words that lead to true and lasting life.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What aspects of Christ's teachings or the Christian walk do I find most challenging or difficult to accept fully?**
* **In what areas of my life am I tempted to "go away" or compromise my faith due to external pressures or internal doubts?**
* **How does my commitment to Jesus compare to the commitment shown by Peter in [John 6:68-69](/john/6-68-69 "John 6:68-69 - Peter's Confession")?**
* **What does it truly mean for me to believe that Jesus alone has "the words of eternal life," and how does that belief sustain me through difficulty?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jesus ask this question if He already knew what was in their hearts, especially concerning Judas?**

Answer: Jesus' question was not born of ignorance, but rather served multiple profound purposes. Firstly, it was a direct challenge to the twelve, forcing them to articulate their commitment and confront their own hearts in the face of widespread defection. It provided an opportunity for them, particularly Peter, to publicly affirm their faith, thereby strengthening their resolve and serving as a powerful example for future generations. Secondly, while Jesus knew Judas's heart ([John 6:70-71](/john/6-70-71 "John 6:70-71 - Jesus knows His betrayer")), His question to the group as a whole was an act of grace, offering even Judas an opportunity to repent and choose differently, though he ultimately would not. It underscored the reality of human free will even within divine foreknowledge, and it served to highlight the stark contrast between genuine faith and superficial adherence, sifting the true disciples from those who would eventually betray or abandon Him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 6:67, though a moment of sifting and challenge, ultimately points to the unique and indispensable person of Jesus Christ as the sole source of eternal life and truth. The question "Will ye also go away?" is implicitly answered by the very nature of who Jesus is and what He offers. He is not merely a teacher of difficult doctrines, but the living Word of God ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Became Flesh")), the one through whom all things were made and in whom all life resides ([John 1:3-4](/john/1-3-4 "John 1:3-4 - Life in the Word")). The "Bread of Life" discourse, which precedes this verse, reveals His identity as the one whose flesh is "true food" and whose blood is "true drink," providing eternal life to those who partake in Him through faith ([John 6:55-58](/john/6-55-58 "John 6:55-58 - Eating Jesus' Flesh and Drinking His Blood")). The disciples' choice to remain with Him, as expressed by Peter in [John 6:68-69](/john/6-68-69 "John 6:68-69 - Peter's Confession"), is a recognition that there is no other savior, no other path to salvation. Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), and the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd")). To "go away" from Him is to turn away from life itself, for He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and no one comes to the Father except through Him ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). Thus, the question in [John 6:67](/john/6-67 "John 6:67 - Jesus asks the Twelve to stay") serves to highlight the singular, non-negotiable centrality of Christ in the pursuit of eternal life and true discipleship.

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

John 6:70

Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?

Luke 14:25

¶ And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them,

Luke 14:33

So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.

Ruth 1:11

And Naomi said, Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? [are] there yet [any more] sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands?

Ruth 1:18

When she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto her.

2 Samuel 15:19

Then said the king to Ittai the Gittite, Wherefore goest thou also with us? return to thy place, and abide with the king: for thou [art] a stranger, and also an exile.

2 Samuel 15:20

Whereas thou camest [but] yesterday, should I this day make thee go up and down with us? seeing I go whither I may, return thou, and take back thy brethren: mercy and truth [be] with thee.