In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. (John 1:1-2)
 
That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life— (1 John 1:1)
 
Are you familiar with the term the “Synoptic Gospels”? They are the Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke that describe the same events from a similar point of view. The Parable of the Sower serves as a good example (Matthew 13:1-23, Mark 4:1-20 and Luke 8:4-15) Why is the Gospel of John excluded?
 
John was a follower of Jesus and was able to witness his ministry first-hand. The Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke relied mostly on accounts from others. Secondly, all of John’s writings took place after he was 85 years old. This would be about 50 years after the on-earth ministry of Jesus. John was able to provide a perspective through his years of observance of the early church movement. The other Gospels were written nearer the time of Christ.
 
We need to remember that John also wrote three epistles and the Book of Revelation, in addition to the Gospel attached to his name. In this devotional, we will share some interesting insights relating to John seen through his writings. Hopefully, this will inspire a greater desire to study the Word, know the Word which results in knowing God (Who is the Word) in a greater way.
 
We will then consider the Seven Miracles contained in John’s Gospel in future devotionals. The recorded miracles in John are more than just miracles; they are signs and messages to the church of the last day.
 
John and the Number Seven
 
The number seven speaks of “completeness”. We know that God created the heavens and the earth in six days and then rested on the seventh. In the Book of Revelation, the number seven is mentioned 54 times. (Seven Seals, Seven Trumpets, Seven Vials, Seven churches, etc).
 
John’s Gospel mentions “I AM” on seven different occasions.
 
I AM the Bread of Life    John 6:35
I AM the Light of the World    John 8:12
I AM the Door    John 10:9
I AM the Good Shepherd    John 10:11
I AM the Resurrection and the Life    John 11:25
I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life    John 14:6
I AM the True Vine    John 15:1
 
There are seven different titles of the Lord mentioned in Chapter One.
 
The Word    1:1-2
The Light    1:9
The Lamb of God    1:29
The Son of God    1:34
The Messiah-Christ    1:41
The King of Israel    1:49
The Son of Man    1:51
 
John Receiving Revelation
 
Have you ever wondered why John was given the privilege of writing the Book of Revelation? It was due to his proximity and relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. Do you remember the events that took place at the time of the Last Supper? It was John who received the “Revelation” of the one who would betray Jesus.
 
Then, leaning back on Jesus’ breast, he said to Him, “Lord, who is it?” Jesus answered, “It is he to whom I shall give a piece of bread when I have dipped it.” And having dipped the bread, He gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. (John 13:25-26)
 
This is why John could speak with authority on the subject of abiding and the key to being fruitful (John 15). John also provided insights on how Jesus spoke of the future ministry of the Holy Spirit, and so much more (John 14:16-17, 16:13).
 
Read the Gospel of John
 
The Gospel of John is usually recommended to people who have just received Jesus as Lord and Saviour? It reveals the life and ministry of Jesus from the person who was closest to Him during his ministry. As we draw closer to the last days, it should be recommended reading for all believers, seeing it contains needed revelation and insights that will prove helpful in preparing for His return.
 
We will examine each of the seven recorded miracles in future devotionals. Remember, these are more than just miracles, they are also signs that will enhance our understanding of the Glorious God we serve. Whether one is new to the faith or a seasoned believer, the writings of John are essential messages to all believers. The Seven Miracles and their references are noted below:
 
Changing Water into wine    John 2:1-11
Healing of the Nobleman’s son    John 4:46-54
Healing of man at Pool of Bethesda    John 5:1-18
Feeding of the Five Thousand    John 6:1-14, 26-71
Walking on Water    John 6:15-25
The man Born Blind    John 9:1-41
Lazarus being Raised from the Dead    John 11:1-44