Lord, To Whom Shall We Go? Series

LORD, TO WHOM SHALL WE GO?

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 6:60-69

Key Verse: “Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.” (John 6:68)

Supporting Texts: Psalm 73:25-26; Matthew 16:16; Acts 4:12; Isaiah 55:6-7

INTRODUCTION

In John chapter six, after Jesus taught about being the Bread of Life, many of His followers found His teachings difficult to accept. As a result, several disciples turned away and no longer walked with Him. This moment revealed a clear distinction between those who followed Jesus casually and those who were truly committed to Him.

Jesus then turned to the twelve disciples and asked a profound question: “Will ye also go away?” It was a moment of decision that required a sincere response. Simon Peter answered on behalf of the disciples with a powerful confession: “Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.”

Peter’s response demonstrates the reality that Jesus is the only source of true life and salvation. When people truly understand who Christ is, they realise that there is nowhere else to turn. Every believer must reach the point of recognising that Christ alone holds the answer to life’s deepest needs.

1. JESUS IS THE ONLY SOURCE OF ETERNAL LIFE

Peter recognised that Christ alone possesses the words that bring eternal life.

a. Salvation Is Found Only in Christ (Acts 4:12)

The Scriptures declare that there is no other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.

b. Christ Is the Way to the Father (John 14:6)

Jesus clearly stated that He is the way, the truth, and the life, and that no one comes to the Father except through Him.

c. The Words of Christ Give Life (John 6:63)

Jesus explained that His words are spirit and life, bringing spiritual transformation to those who receive them.

d. Eternal Life Is a Gift Through Christ (Romans 6:23)

While sin leads to death, the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Biblical Example:

When Martha mourned the death of her brother Lazarus, Jesus revealed Himself as the resurrection and the life, demonstrating His authority over death and eternal destiny (John 11:25-26).

2. TRUE DISCIPLES REMAIN WITH CHRIST

While many followers abandoned Jesus, the true disciples chose to remain with Him.

a. Commitment Beyond Difficult Teachings (John 6:60-61)

True discipleship involves remaining faithful even when Christ’s teachings challenge personal comfort.

b. Perseverance in Faith (Hebrews 10:39)

Believers are called not to draw back but to continue in faith toward salvation.

c. Loyalty to Christ Above All (Luke 9:62)

Those who put their hands to the plough and look back are not fit for the kingdom of God.

d. Endurance Leads to Reward (Matthew 24:13)

Those who endure to the end will receive salvation.

Biblical Example:

Ruth demonstrated unwavering loyalty when she told Naomi, “Whither thou goest, I will go,” illustrating the kind of commitment God desires from His followers (Ruth 1:16-17).

3. RECOGNISING THE AUTHORITY OF CHRIST

Peter’s confession acknowledged Jesus not only as a teacher but as the Holy One of God.

a. Christ as the Son of the Living God (Matthew 16:16)

Peter earlier declared that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God.

b. Divine Authority in Christ’s Words (Matthew 7:28-29)

People were astonished at Jesus’ teaching because He spoke with authority.

c. Christ as God’s Anointed One (Acts 10:38)

Jesus was anointed by God with the Holy Spirit and power to accomplish His mission.

d. Honour and Reverence for Christ (Philippians 2:9-11)

Every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.

Biblical Example:

After Jesus calmed the storm, the disciples worshipped Him, declaring, “Of a truth thou art the Son of God” (Matthew 14:32-33).

4. CHRIST ALONE PROVIDES HOPE AND DIRECTION

Peter’s question highlights the truth that apart from Christ, humanity has no lasting hope.

a. God as the Ultimate Desire (Psalm 73:25)

The psalmist declares that there is none on earth to desire besides God.

b. Seeking the Lord While He May Be Found (Isaiah 55:6)

People are encouraged to seek the Lord and call upon Him while He is near.

c. Trusting Christ for Guidance (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Believers must trust in the Lord and allow Him to direct their paths.

d. Christ as the Anchor of Hope (Hebrews 6:19)

The hope found in Christ is secure and steadfast for the soul.

Biblical Example:

When the prodigal son realised the emptiness of life away from his father, he returned home and found restoration and acceptance (Luke 15:17-24).

CONCLUSION

Peter’s declaration, “Lord, to whom shall we go?” remains one of the most powerful affirmations of faith in the New Testament. It reflects the recognition that Jesus Christ alone has the words of eternal life. No philosophy, tradition, or human wisdom can replace the life-giving truth found in Him.