John wrote his Gospel so that we might believe and have life in Jesus' name.
“But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.”John 20:31 (KJV)
What does “That you may believe” mean in John 20:31?
John says he wrote a selected account of the many signs Jesus did. His stated purpose is that readers would believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and have life through His name.
Going deeper
Near the end of his Gospel, John steps back and tells us why he wrote it. He says Jesus did many other signs that were not recorded, but these are written for one purpose: that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Then he adds the result: that believing ye might have life through his name. The whole book is aimed at a decision and at a gift. Belief is the door, and life is what waits on the other side.
This gives us a way of reading Scripture. We are not meant only to gather information, but to meet Someone. As you read the Gospels, ask what each scene shows you about who Jesus is. Then respond in trust. If you are not sure you believe, read John slowly with an open heart and see what happens. If you do believe, thank Him for the life you have received, and ask how you can help someone else discover it.
Reflect
As you read the Gospels this week, what could you ask about who Jesus is?
Pray
Lord Jesus, thank You for the life I have in Your name. Help me to read Your word with an open heart and to believe more deeply. In Jesus' name, amen.
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