The Picture Of Bread

January 2014 – Grace & Truth Magazine

The Picture Of BREAD

One thing from Scripture that always impresses me is how God reveals aspects about Himself using the simplest and most common items. Aside from the Word of God, I do not think believers would dare say that the Son of God is like bread, but that is precisely what the Lord Jesus said: “I am the Bread of Life” (Jn. 6:35 NASB ). In this connection, there are many comparisons and lessons for us to enjoy while being drawn closer to Him.

One lesson that I would have liked to remember better was related to making bread, given quite a few years ago during Sunday school by a man who worked for a national bread company. Of course there are variations in making bread, but from what I can recall, there are only a few primary ingredients: fine flour, water and salt. Interestingly, as one goes through the Bible, he or she can find wonderful connections with the Lord for each, such as the pure humanity of Christ in the fine flour (Lev. 2:1-2). God associates water with His Word (Eph. 5:26), and the Lord is the Word (Jn. 1:1). Salt is a preservative and gives a savor, which we can easily see in our Savior who offered up Himself to God (Eph. 5:2). There are other aspects as well, including the use of yeast in certain kinds of bread and the effects of the baking process on the ingredients. These are just a few points that come to mind.

As you read this month’s Uplook and Feature articles, you will see many other valuable lessons. We put the Uplook column first this month because it provides a very good introduction and summary of the topic, as well as pointing out the difference in the focus of the Feature articles – whether they present a one-time devouring or an ongoing eating of bread. There are some rich lessons here for you to chew on!

The Serving column was adapted from a letter we received from a prisoner who was caught in that struggle of doing the Lord’s will or his own. We trust the Lord will use that article along with the others to encourage and strengthen your heart as you walk with Him.

By Paul Alberts