What happens when Jesus says something that offends you? In John 6:60-66, hundreds of disciples walked away from Jesus because his teaching became too hard to accept. They were looking for bread and a political messiah, but Jesus offered them his flesh and blood, a repulsive suggestion.

But Jesus doesn't soften his message. Instead, he explains why only some believe: "No one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father." The problem isn't that Jesus's words are difficult: the problem is us. Apart from God's Spirit, we are hostile to God and unable to submit to his truth.

But here's the hope: God grants faith. He gives his Spirit to those who ask. If you find yourself drawn to Jesus, that desire itself is evidence of God's work in your heart. Faith isn't earned; it's granted by a gracious Father who sent his Son to save all who come to him.

This Sunday, we'll see why Jesus offends the natural mind, and why only the Spirit can turn us to embrace the words of eternal life.