'Commentary on the Gospel of John, Book 3' Summary

Cyril of Alexandria's 'Commentary on the Gospel of John, Book 3' offers a profound and detailed analysis of the central themes of John 5:35-6:37. The commentary delves into the role of John the Baptist as a key witness to Christ, examining the significance of his testimony and his relationship to the fulfillment of prophecy. Cyril explores the concept of the 'Bread of Life', analyzing Jesus's discourse on the bread of heaven in the context of the Jewish understanding of the manna and the coming of the true Messiah. The miraculous feeding of the five thousand, as described in John 6, is examined as a powerful illustration of Christ's divine power and his ability to provide both physical and spiritual sustenance. Cyril then connects these themes with the prophecy in Deuteronomy 18:15-19, arguing that the coming of Christ fulfilled the prophecy regarding the prophet who would arise from among the Israelites. Through his thorough analysis of these verses, Cyril provides insights into the nature of Christ, the role of prophecy, and the relationship between the Old and New Testaments. Cyril's commentary reveals his deep understanding of scripture, his profound theological insights, and his commitment to defending the orthodox understanding of Christ and his teachings.