ACC ~ John 6 v67

THE QUESTION PROBES THEIR MOTIVES

CHRYSOSTOM: Had he praised them, they would naturally, as people do, have thought that they were conferring a favor on Christ by not leaving him. By showing, as he did, that he did not need their company, he made them stick all the more closely to him. He does not say, however, “Go away,” as this would have been to cast them off. Rather, he asks whether they wanted to go away. In this way, he prevented them from staying with him out of any feeling of shame or compulsion. HOMILIES ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 47.3. [1]

[1] NPNF 1 14:170-71*.

NO COMPULSION

ATHANASIUS: For it is the part of true godliness not to compel but to persuade. Our Lord himself does not employ force but offers the choice, saying to everyone, “If anyone will follow after me,” [1] and to his disciples in particular, “Will you also go away?” HISTORY OF THE ARIANS 8.67. [2]

[1] Mt 16:24.

[2] NPNF 2 4:295**. See Chrysostom Homilies on the Gospel of John 47.4.

HOW MANY FAITHFUL

CYRIL OF ALEXANDRIA: For it is not the number of worshipers but rather those who excel in the right faith, though they are few, that are precious in the sight of God. COMMENTARY ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 4.3. [1]

[1] LF 43:442*. Cyril also sees an implicit threat in Jesus’ words that the disciples must remain faithful.

Jn