Address given on Easter Sunday 5th April 2026,
by John McSweeney at Withyditch Chapel, Somerset
Summary
The address emphasises the significance of the Lord Jesus’ use of “I” and “me” in the gospels, highlighting His divine authority and reliability. It underscores His humanity, having experienced human emotions and hardships, and His unique ability to fulfil His promises.
The conversation also explores the metaphor of Jesus as “the bread of life,” emphasising spiritual nourishment and contentment. It stresses the necessity of believing in Jesus for eternal life, citing His resurrection and the promise of everlasting life. The speakers conclude by urging listeners to come to Jesus for rest, grace, and salvation.
Address
The address begins with a reflection on how people are often taught not to use “I” and “me” too much in speech or writing, as it can sound boastful. Some even replace the word “I” with “one” to avoid appearing self-centred. Yet when reading the words of the Lord Jesus in the Gospels, this pattern is reversed. He frequently uses the terms “I” and “me.” This is not arrogance, but truth—because He is the eternal Son of God, speaking with full authority. His words are always reliable, unlike human intentions that circumstances often interrupt.
The focus, therefore, is not on a creed, a code, or a religious system but on a person: who Jesus is. The Bible declares that Jesus is God. As stated in John’s Gospel, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” This living Word became flesh and lived among us. Jesus was truly God yet also fully human—born as a baby, growing through all stages of life, and experiencing hunger, tiredness, pain, and rejection. He understands human suffering completely, yet as God, He also holds all power and authority.
The sermon then recalls the historical reality of Jesus’ life: He lived on earth, was crucified, died, and was buried. On the third day, He rose again and was seen by many witnesses, including over 500 people at once, as recorded by the Apostle Paul. He went up to heaven after He rose from the dead, and He is still there today,a living man at the right hand of the Father. Therefore, His words are not distant philosophy but living truth, relevant now.
One of His key statements is “I am the bread of life.” Bread is described as a universal, basic food found in every culture. Just as physical bread sustains the body, Jesus offers Himself as the one who sustains the soul. Human beings feel physical hunger, but there is also a deeper spiritual hunger—a longing for meaning, peace, and contentment. Many seek satisfaction through excitement, philosophy, or even religion, but true fulfilment comes only through Him.
Jesus promises that “whoever comes to me shall never hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.” He offers complete spiritual nourishment. When a person trusts in Him, they replace the emptiness and restlessness of their soul with lasting satisfaction. Remarkably, this supply never diminishes—countless people can come to Him, yet His provision remains full and sufficient.
However, the sermon emphasises the importance of recognising spiritual needs. Humanity has failed to live as God intended; sin separates people from Him and places them under judgement. Yet Jesus, who was perfect, took that judgement upon Himself on the cross. He suffered in place of others so that those who believe in Him may be forgiven, made clean, and given new life.
A further promise is given: “Whoever comes to me I will never cast out.” This is a firm and eternal assurance. Faith must be genuine, from the heart—not merely words—but those who truly come to Him are accepted. Another promise follows: those who believe will have everlasting life and will be raised at the last day. Though people today do not see Jesus physically, they can see Him through the Scriptures—His life, His actions, His death, and His resurrection—and believe in Him.
The sermon also recalls His invitation: “Come unto me, all you who labour and are heavily laden, and I will give you rest.” This is an open invitation to all—especially those burdened by guilt, fear, or life’s pressures. Jesus describes Himself as “meek and lowly in heart” yet also promises rest and relief. There is no need to feel unworthy or overlooked; the invitation is universal. He has already done the hard work through His suffering, and no amount of human effort can achieve what He has accomplished.
Finally, the sermon highlights another central statement: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” No one comes to the Father except through me.” This is both a promise and a warning. Jesus is not one option among many; He is the only way to God. His words are entirely true and unchanging. Without Him, there is no access to the Father. Good deeds, religious practices, or personal effort cannot bridge that gap.
The message concludes with a direct appeal: to take Jesus at His word, to come to Him, and to trust Him. He is alive, He invites all, and He will not turn anyone away who comes to Him in faith.
