The Purpose of Signs in John's Gospel Pt 4

The fruit of John’s purpose

The signs recorded by John display His eternal glory and mastery over human challenges, the laws of nature, and death itself thereby proving that Jesus is the divine Son of God. The signs also prove to be the means of realizing John’s desire for people to believe that Jesus is the messiah, the One sent by the Father to give life and give it abundantly. In addition to recording signs for the attainment of life, John also gives believers in all generations the hope of attaining a saving relationship with the Father’s son. Not only does he record the signs, he also records their fruit. The fruit of Jesus’ sign are found in the confessions of those who believe. Nathaniel confesses that Jesus is “the Son of God! The King of Israel!” (1:49) The confessions of the Samaritan woman (4:29), Phillip (1:45), Mary Magdalene (20:18), Peter (6:67-69) and Thomas who confesses that Jesus is his Lord and his God (John 20:28) all point to God’s saving power which is ultimately manifested through the greatest sign of all: Jesus’ once and final triumph over death (20:1-18). In recording this ultimate sign John demonstrates the heart of the Father (John 3:16) and the means by which humanity- through an expression of faith- may find eternal communion with His Son.