Jesus’ command to EAT MY FLESH and DRINK MY BLOOD was difficult (v.60), offensive (v. 61), and evidently the last straw for some of his disciples (v. 66)

Not everyone who calls me Lord will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of my Father in heaven. [Matt 7:21, bold mine]

John Wesley stated that those who turn back are often CARELESS and/or PRIDEFUL. [Explanatory Notes on the New Testament]

Rather than focus on the ones who left, let’s focus on the ones who remained and learn from them how to persevere in our faith.

1. Trust that the end of our rope is a place of plentiful grace.

Lord, to whom can we go? [Jn 6:68]

My power is perfected in weakness. [2 Cor 12:9]

The real triumphs of the gospel have not been won when the church is strong in a worldly sense; they have been won when the church is faithful in the midst of weakness, contempt, and rejection. - The Open Secret by Lesslie Newbigin

2. Refuse to be easily offended.

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are my ways your ways. [Is. 55:8]
Humility instead of entitlement
Following Jesus does not have only privileges but also responsibilities

3. Embrace that following comes before understanding.

Peter and Andrew, James and John all heard the word “follow me” well before they heard Jesus teach, saw him heal, became acquainted with his compassion, or witnessed his resurrection and ascension. They were first invited to walk in his footsteps before they professed their faith.