John: The Purpose of this Gospel

Read John 20:30-31

Just before the last chapter, and just after Jesus appeared to Mary and the disciples, John pressed pause to remind us why he was inspired to tell the stories presented in the Fourth Gospel. These two simple verses are very significant in my mind.

Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book.John 20:30

Many super religious fundamentalists will demand that we study and memorize the Bible as God’s inerrant word. Some have even said the foundation of their faith is the Bible. The Bible reveals God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit to us, but Jesus is the rock. The foundation of my faith is Jesus. I hope and pray I haven’t offended anyone at this point.

If you’ve been reading my blog at all, you must know that I think the Bible is amazing! It is the inspired word of God provided for us for many reasons. It teaches us everything we need to know about getting along in this world and prepares us for the one beyond. It is the most important book in the world. No doubt.

By embracing the Bible as the authoritative document, we join hands with people around the world. We have a common language and enjoy similar experiences through stories that encourage us much of the time, challenge us to have faith beyond our tiny minds can understand while exhorting us to keep doing better.

We absolutely need to read and understand what is written in the Bible.

But it is not all that God said or did.

It is only the highlight reel, the tip of the proverbial iceberg. The Bible puts us on an even playing field and points us in the right direction.

The stories contained in this amazing work are here for a reason.

But these 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. John 20:31

Thomas needed to see Jesus with his eyes, hear with his ears, touch with his hands. He was one of a few hundred that enjoyed that brief opportunity. Those who saw Him are far fewer than those who did not. We have the Bible as a guide to help us appreciate what He’s done while emphasizing what He will do. The Bible is available in many forms that we may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God.

Thank you, Lord, for providing the Bible for us in this modern age. Blessed are those who believed in You without seeing You or having a Bible. May I use this resource to point people to You.