What Jesus Did! 'Attracting a Crowd' — John 6:1-2

Saturday, April 18, 2026

After [his confrontation with the Jewish leaders], Jesus crossed over to the far side of the Sea of Galilee, also known as the Sea of Tiberias. A huge crowd kept following him wherever he went, because they saw his miraculous signs as he healed the sick.
— John 6:1-2 NLT

Key Thought

Folks follow the show, especially if they can get something for free. This chapter begins with a huge crowd that was seeking to commandeer Jesus' ministry for their own reasons. It ends with most of them turning away. However, we also get to see what makes up the heart of a true disciple who does not turn away from Jesus just because things grow tough. [1] A point we ought to see here is that when we do acts of kindness, service, and genuine compassion in the name of Jesus, people can't help but be attracted. Yes, some will turn away when hard times or difficult truths confront them, but others will come to Jesus and be saved and blessed. So let's serve and bless and let Jesus take care of the rest!

[1] John 6:68.

Today's Prayer

Lord God, Father of mercy and God of all compassion, use me to serve others in the name of Jesus. Give me courage not to compromise his truth, but also give me compassion to serve others as he did. In his name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

Have thoughts on this devotional? Leave a comment

Illustration

Illustration of John 6:1-2 NLT — A huge crowd kept following him wherever he went, because they saw his miraculous signs as he healed the sick.

Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Saturday, April 18, 2026

Unstoppable!
A one-year devotional guide through the book of Acts.
'We Are Only Messengers from God!' (Acts 14:14-18)
"But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard [that the priests of Zeus were about to offer sacrifices to them], they tore their clothing in dismay....."
Quotemeal
A daily dose of Christian quotes to inspire and encourage.
Quote by Elisabeth Elliot:
"Here lies the tremendous mystery - that God should be all-powerful, yet refuse to coerce. He summons us to cooperation. We are honored in being given the..."
Passion for Praise
A daily passage of Scripture emphasizing praise to our God.
'My Tower of Safety' (Ps. 144:1-2)
"Praise the Lord, who is my rock. ... He is my loving ally and my fortress, my tower of safety, my rescuer,. He is my shield, and I take refuge in him."
Spiritual Warfare
A daily devotional about God's power for our battles.
'Pray for Eyes to See Ourselves as God Sees Us'
"I know what you do, that you are not hot or cold. I wish that you were hot or cold! 16 But because you are lukewarm—neither hot, nor cold—I am ready....."

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

More What Jesus Did!