New Testament
John 6:26
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus addresses a crowd that has followed Him after witnessing the miracle of the feeding of the 5,000.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you are looking for me not because you saw miraculous signs, but because you ate the loaves and were filled."
Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus addresses a crowd that has followed Him after witnessing the miracle of the feeding of the 5,000. He points out that their motivation for seeking Him is not rooted in a genuine understanding of His miraculous signs, but rather in their physical satisfaction from the bread they received. This highlights a common human tendency to seek Jesus for what He can provide materially rather than for who He is spiritually. Jesus emphasizes the importance of recognizing the deeper significance of His miracles, which are meant to reveal His divine nature and mission. He wants them to understand that true fulfillment comes from a relationship with Him, not just from temporary physical needs being met. This statement challenges the listeners to reflect on their motives and encourages them to seek a deeper connection with Him beyond their immediate desires. Explore related contentment.
Related Bible verses
How to apply John 6:26 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own motivations for following Jesus. Are we seeking Him for our physical needs or for a deeper relationship? We should strive to pursue spiritual growth and understanding, recognizing that true satisfaction comes from knowing Him personally.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 6:26 mean?
In John 6:26, Jesus tells the crowd that they are seeking Him not for the miracles He performed, but because they were physically satisfied by the bread He provided. This highlights the difference between seeking Jesus for material needs versus understanding His spiritual significance.
What is the significance of the phrase 'you are looking for me' in John 6:26?
The phrase 'you are looking for me' indicates that the crowd's pursuit of Jesus is motivated by their immediate physical needs rather than a true understanding of His divine purpose. It challenges listeners to reflect on their reasons for seeking Him.
How does John 6:26 relate to true discipleship?
John 6:26 emphasizes that true discipleship involves seeking a relationship with Jesus for who He is, rather than for the material benefits He can provide. It encourages believers to pursue spiritual fulfillment over temporary physical satisfaction.
What lesson can we learn from John 6:26?
From John 6:26, we learn to examine our own motivations for following Jesus. It reminds us to seek a deeper connection with Him that goes beyond our immediate physical needs.

The Book of John
John 1: The Word Made Flesh and the First Disciples
In the beginning is the Word, and the Word is with God, and the Word is God. All things are made by him, and in him is life, and the life is the light of men. The light shines in darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it. John the Baptist is sent from God to bear witness of the Light. He says he is not the Christ but comes to testify of him. The Word is made flesh and dwells among them, full of grace and truth. John bears witness and says that the one coming after him is preferred before him because he is before him.
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