The Gospel according to John, from the very beginning shapes the story of Jesus Christ, the Word, differently than the synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark & Luke) and shares different stories from them as well. Within this gospel it has two main sections, according to The New Oxford Annotated Bible (NRSV), the first section discloses the true identity of Jesus to those who believe by signs. There are increased conflicts between Jesus, his followers and those who oppose him. The second section begins Jesus’ return to the Father and his teachings so they may continue to follow him after he is gone. Some beloved stories are found in John alone, like the rising of Lazarus, and lengthy teachings, like the scene with the Samaritan Woman. Very uniquely in the Gospel of John does Jesus speak the “I am” statements with Jesus defining himself to everyday objects; like the ‘good shepherd.’ This gospel continues with signs that reveal Jesus’ glory and bring people to believe in him as readers today too.

John 14:6-13

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. ⁷If you know me, you will know my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.” ⁸Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied.” ⁹Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and you still do not know me? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? ¹⁰Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own; but the Father who dwells in me does his works. ¹¹Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; but if you do not, then believe me because of the works themselves.

¹²Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these, because I am going to the Father. ¹³I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. ¹⁴If in my name you ask me for anything, I will do it.”

Prayer

Christ Jesus, our way, and our truth, may I celebrate this seed of faith you continue to water within me for life eternal. Teach me to live my life as an offering to do good works in your name, Amen.