In this teaching, Jesus contrasts the temporary nature of physical food with the enduring value of spiritual nourishment. While physical food satisfies our immediate hunger, it eventually perishes. In contrast, the spiritual sustenance that Jesus offers leads to eternal life and is of lasting significance. Jesus, referred to as the Son of Man, is the one who provides this spiritual nourishment, and he is uniquely qualified to do so because God the Father has placed His seal of approval on him. This seal signifies divine endorsement and authority, affirming Jesus as the source of eternal life.
The passage invites us to shift our focus from the temporary to the eternal, encouraging us to seek deeper spiritual truths and a relationship with God through Jesus. It challenges us to prioritize our spiritual well-being and to trust in Jesus as the provider of true life. By doing so, we find a more profound sense of purpose and fulfillment that transcends the fleeting nature of worldly pursuits.