Witness, Writer, Evangelist
Scripture Reading — John 20:30-31
These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God... John 20:31
The gospel writer John was present at every major event in Jesus' ministry. He heard Jesus' teaching, saw his miracles, and was present on the Mount of Transfiguration when the voice from heaven declared, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!" (Matthew 17:5). John was present at the Last Supper. He was also at the cross, where Jesus told him to take care of his mother, Mary (John 19:26-27). John saw the empty tomb on resurrection morning, and he was on the Mount of Olives when Jesus said, "You will be my witnesses" (Acts 1:8) and then ascended into heaven. Bearing witness to Jesus became the passion of John's life. His purpose in writing was that readers "may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing [they] may have life in his name."
When John was old, he was exiled to a lonely island as punishment for his witnessing. But Jesus appeared to him there, saying, "Do not be afraid... I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever" (Revelation 1:17-18). Jesus then gave John important messages for the churches and pictures of events to come.
John's witness still gives hope, comfort, and instruction to people around the world today. May his passion for Jesus burn in us and never grow cold.
Lord, make us faithful, like your servant John, lifting up Jesus' name till he returns again. Guide us each day by the Holy Spirit you sent to live in us, we pray. Amen.
About the author — Roger S. Greenway
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