Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name. -John 20:30-31 NRSV
As John wraps up his Jesus story, he seems to take a breath and speak to us about the reason for his writing. He presents no treatise on the nature of sin or our need to repent. He says nothing about the Jewish scriptures. He summarizes his gospel in a few words. Jesus is the Messiah and believing in him is all about having real life.
That message is so different than many religious ones that we hear even today. Instead of delineating five steps to religious success, John simply tells us to believe that Jesus is who he said that he is. It is a simple message yet one that goes against our works oriented approach to God. Even so, I have found it to be a life giving message.
Lord, lead us in the ways that lead to life in your name. Help us to find hope in the name of Jesus.
... this devotion is part of an ongoing series on the Gospel of John.
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