The One Who Testifies

Scripture: John 21:23-25 (Click link for scripture in Bible Gateway)

23 So the rumor spread among the community of believers that this disciple wouldn’t die. But that isn’t what Jesus said at all. He only said, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?” 24 This disciple is the one who testifies to these events and has recorded them here. And we know that his account of these things is accurate. 25 Jesus also did many other things. If they were all written down, I suppose the whole world could not contain the books that would be written. (John 21:23-25 NLT)

At the time of this writing, John may have been the only original apostle still living. John is “testifying to these events and recording them here” a quarter century after Peter died. In fact, there were few eyewitnesses to the whole of Jesus’ ministry still living, and John must have felt a sense of urgency to get these things in writing while he was still able. John likely wrote this Gospel from Ephesus, where he was living when he wrote 1, 2, and 3 John shortly before he was exiled to the island of Patmos.

John declares, “We know this is an accurate account of the life and ministry of Jesus the Christ!” He writes with authority because he’s saying, “I was there! I heard and saw and touched and participated in the things I’ve written about Jesus.” A few days ago John told us,“30 The disciples saw Jesus do many other miraculous signs in addition to the ones recorded in this book. 31 But these are written so that you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing in him you will have life by the power of his name.”  (John 20:30-31 NLT).

John tells us, “I didn’t write everything that Jesus did. There was just so much, and it was all so good! I chose these events and words and stories so you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, the Son of Man, and that by believing in him you will have life now and for eternity! And besides, you can read Mark’s book, Matthew’s book, and Luke’s book to get some of the stuff I left out!”

“Jesus also did many other things. If they were all written down, I suppose the whole world could not contain the books that would be written.” Twenty centuries later, Jesus is still “doing many other things” by his Spirit through his followers who believe in him.

Prayer:

Father, Thank you for eternal life through faith in Jesus the Christ! Thank you for the writings, for the stories, and that you’re still doing the stuff! Amen!