Seven Things You May Not Know About Jesus

Portrait of Jesus

The Book of John, one of the four canonical gospels in the New Testament, offers a unique portrait of Jesus Christ, distinct in character and narrative from the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke). John emphasizes Jesus' divine nature, presenting Him not just as a man or a prophet but as the living Word of God, the light of the world, who came to reveal the Father and bring eternal life to all who believe in Him. 

Here are seven intriguing aspects about Jesus from the Book of John that you might not know:

1. The Word Became Flesh: The Book of John starts with the profound statement, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). It introduces Jesus as the preexistent Word who became flesh and lived among us (John 1:14). This concept of the divine Logos incarnating is unique to John and underscores Jesus' divine nature and His intimate relationship with God the Father.
2. Miraculous Signs as Faith Catalysts: While all gospels record Jesus' miracles, John specifically refers to them as "signs" and focuses on select miracles demonstrating His divine authority and identity. These signs include turning water into wine at Cana (John 2:1-11), healing the royal official's son (John 4:46-54), and raising Lazarus from the dead (John 11:1-44). John presents these signs as evidence for readers to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God (John 20:30-31).
3. "I Am" Statements: John's gospel is renowned for the seven "I Am" statements of Jesus, which are metaphoric expressions that reveal His divine identity and mission. These include "I am the bread of life" (John 6:35), "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12), and "I am the way and the truth and the life" (John 14:6), among others. Each statement is a profound revelation of Jesus' nature and His role in bringing salvation to humanity.
4. The New Commandment: Jesus introduces a new commandment in John 13:34-35, instructing His followers to "love one another; as I have loved you." This commandment emphasizes love as the defining characteristic of His disciples, setting a new standard based on Jesus' sacrificial love rather than merely loving one's neighbor as oneself.
5. The High Priestly Prayer: In John 17, Jesus prays for His disciples and all believers in what is often called the High Priestly Prayer. This prayer is unique to John and reveals Jesus' concern for His followers' unity, protection, and sanctification. It also highlights His desire for all believers to share in the love and glory He has with the Father, offering a profound insight into His intercessory role.
6. The Role of the Paraclete: John introduces the Holy Spirit as the Paraclete, a term meaning Advocate, Helper, or Comforter (John 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7). Jesus promises to send the Holy Spirit to His disciples after His departure to guide, teach, and remind them of His teachings, playing a crucial role in empowering and sustaining the early Christian community.
7. The Emphasis on Personal Relationship and Belief: Throughout John's narrative, the emphasis on believing in Jesus for eternal life is paramount. John 3:16, perhaps the most quoted verse from the Bible, encapsulates this theme, offering salvation to all who believe in Jesus. John's gospel invites readers into a personal relationship with Jesus, highlighting faith as the means to eternal life and intimate fellowship with God.

Summary of Portrait of Jesus

The Book of John provides a rich, theological portrait of Jesus, inviting readers to explore the depth of His divine nature and the breadth of His love. These seven aspects only scratch the surface of the profound teachings and revelations found in this gospel, encouraging believers and seekers alike to delve deeper into the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.