“Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” John 20:30-31 (ESV)
The Gospel of John is the most unique of the four Gospel accounts. Dare I say, it is one of the greatest books of the Bible, with it’s clear purpose to edify the believer and win the unbeliever. John says as much near the close of the Gospel, “but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ.” This is the aim of our new series in the Gospel of John, that He may be known to you!
The author of this gospel is none other than John the Apostle, a beloved follower of Jesus, and close companion to our Savior. Some background will help us to understand the eternal impact that Jesus made on John. John was likely one of the younger disciples, and was part of Jesus’s innermost circle along with his brother James and Peter. He is noted as the disciple that Jesus loved. Moreover, the gospel account is likely written late in the life of John. We know this because he is aware that Peter has been martyred. Also his brother, James, has been martyred prior to the writing (Acts 12:2).
Why are these important facts? Because they show the unwavering impact of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus on John. His friends were killed for their faith, and public proclamation of the resurrected Christ. Moreover, John suffered much during his ministry. Church history informs us that he survived an attempt to take his life. He was likely placed in boiling oil, and somehow made it out alive. Even in the midst of seeing his friend and brother die, John kept calling people to repentance and belief. Even after escaping death and being cast away to the island of Patmos, John kept at the task!
We have the fruit of John’s labor, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. My hope and prayer is that we will grow to have a deep faith like John, Peter, and James. I hope that you come to know and love Jesus more through this gospel, and those who are far from Jesus, come to know His power throughout this series.
Join with us for this journey through this incredible book!
Sundays at 9 or 11am
North Bullitt Christian Church 