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.
But {G1161} these {G5023} are written {G1125}, that {G2443} ye might believe {G4100} that {G3754} Jesus {G2424} is {G2076} the Christ {G5547}, the Son {G5207} of God {G2316}; and {G2532} that {G2443} believing {G4100} ye might have {G2192} life {G2222} through {G1722} his {G846} name {G3686}.
But these which have been recorded are here so that you may trust that Yeshua is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by this trust you may have life because of who he is.
But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.
but these are written, that ye may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye may have life in his name.
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Acts 10:43
To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. -
John 3:15
That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. -
John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. -
1 John 5:1
¶ Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him. -
1 John 4:15
Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. -
1 John 5:20
And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, [even] in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life. -
1 John 5:10
¶ He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.
John 20:31 serves as the climactic purpose statement for the entire Gospel of John, explicitly revealing the author's intention behind recounting the signs, teachings, and resurrection of Jesus. It is a powerful summary of the book's evangelistic and theological objectives, inviting readers to a transformative encounter with Christ.
Context
This verse appears immediately before the epilogue of John's Gospel (Chapter 21), marking the conclusion of the main narrative. Having presented compelling evidence of Jesus' resurrection, including appearances to Mary Magdalene, the disciples, and even the skeptical Thomas (John 20:27), the apostle John explains why he chose to record these specific events, rather than the "many other signs" that Jesus performed (John 20:30). It underscores that the Gospel is not merely a historical account, but a carefully curated testimony designed to elicit faith.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
Practical Application
John 20:31 remains profoundly relevant today. It reminds us that the Bible, particularly the Gospels, is not merely a historical document but a living testimony designed to foster faith. For those who read it, the call is to:
This verse serves as a powerful evangelistic tool and a cornerstone for Christian faith, inviting all to believe and find life in Jesus.