From the first chapter to the last, the Apostle John wants his readers to know that life and salvation are given to people through faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God. For example, John writes of Jesus in the opening chapter, “But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.”
Throughout this gospel, John helps the reader come to Jesus, first, by explaining who he is. Jesus is presented as the Christ and the incarnate Word, the Son of God. Jesus has been sent into the world by the Father on a mission to bring life to a humanity dying in its sin. Second, John makes it clear to the reader that the words of Jesus are true, authoritative and life giving. The words of Jesus are the life giving words of God. Third, John tells the reader of the things that Jesus did while he was on this earth. Jesus performed miracles to demonstrate that he really was the Son of God, and that his teaching is true. Also, John makes it clear that Jesus willingly died on the cross, and that he died on the cross to accomplish something.
Jesus died on the cross so that he might bear the wrath of God that was due to every one of us because of our sin. The Bible says, “The payoff of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 6:23). On the cross Jesus took the penalty of sin so that you might be set free from that penalty. Jesus willingly did this because he truly cares for you. Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” It is also clear from this gospel that Jesus did not remain dead in the tomb. Rather, this gospel makes it clear that Jesus arose from the dead and is alive. Jesus resurrection demonstrates that he does have authority over life and death.
Will you trust Him with your life?