Sunday 24 April 2022

Psalm 150

Background

When I read a novel, I always read whatever notes there are on the author. I like to know who they are, something of their background and what they are about. The novel might be very straightforward, or it might have a few layers that a bit of insight into the author could help me spot. Sometimes it becomes clear why the book was written.

There is no mystery why John’s Gospel was written. It’s not meant to be a neutral, abstract account of the life of Jesus. It’s clearly an evangelistic rendering of Jesus with the purpose that those reading it, or more likely initially hearing it, will meet with the risen Jesus in the story and become committed followers. And it does stand apart a little from the other three gospels. John’s Gospel is less of a factual retelling and at times is an interpretation. It's part of the reason there are four gospels. We don’t need four accounts that are somewhat similar. In its differences, God speaks clearly to us.

I’ve always been fascinated by the phrase in verse 30 "Jesus did many other signs". What were they? Were there completely different signs? Why were they not included? There are miracles ascribed to Jesus in sources other than the Bible such as the Gospel of Thomas or the Qur’an (the central text of Islam). We can’t know. But we do know that the Spirit was at work guiding the author to create this story of Jesus so that centuries later it still impacts countless numbers who believe and ‘have life in his name’.

To Ponder: 

• What difference does it make to us that we don’t know everything that Jesus said and did?
• How helpful is it for a Christian to read about Jesus in sources such as the Qur’an or the Gospel of Thomas? 

Prayer

Gracious God, as I read your word may it speak into my life and reveal to me your love, grace and guidance.