Authors write books for different reasons. Some explain a difficult concept, others reveal a mystery, and still more just want to tell a good story. John, the author of the gospel bearing his name, accomplished all three.

John clearly stated the purpose of his book. After teasing his readers by letting us know that Jesus performed loads of other miracles not covered in his accounting, John wrote that his recorded stories are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

When I come across a person who is interested in knowing more about Jesus, or questioning the topic of religion, or doubting whether God exists at all, I encourage them to read the gospel of John. When I doubt my faith, I read the gospel of John. When I wonder where God is hiding, I read the gospel of John. When the world seems lost in darkness, I read of the light found in the gospel of John.

I find it helpful to pray before reading. Lord, show yourself as I read. Holy Spirit, open my eyes to the wonderful realities written here, and help me experience the amazing Savior found in these pages.

Whether it’s our first time through this marvelous book, or we pore over a well-thumbed text, may our Messiah, the Giver of Life, meet us afresh.

John 20 in Through the Bible in 2024

Photo by Patrick Fore