Why is the Gospel of John so different from Matthew, Mark, and Luke?+
John's Gospel has a more theological and spiritual focus, with longer discourses by Jesus rather than parables. It includes unique events like the wedding at Cana, Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus, and the resurrection of Lazarus. John also emphasizes Jesus' divine identity through the use of 'I am' statements and presents Jesus as the incarnate Word of God.
What are the 'I am' statements in John's Gospel?+
Jesus makes seven major 'I am' statements in John that reveal his identity and purpose: 'I am the bread of life' (6:35), 'I am the light of the world' (8:12), 'I am the door' (10:7), 'I am the good shepherd' (10:11), 'I am the resurrection and the life' (11:25), 'I am the way and the truth and the life' (14:6), and 'I am the true vine' (15:1). These statements develop John's theological presentation of Jesus.
How many 'signs' or miracles does John record in his Gospel?+
John explicitly records seven miraculous signs: turning water into wine at Cana (2:1-11), healing the official's son (4:46-54), healing the sick man at the pool (5:1-15), feeding the five thousand (6:1-14), walking on water (6:16-21), healing the blind man (9:1-41), and raising Lazarus from the dead (11:1-45). John uses 'sign' rather than 'miracle' to emphasize these events as revelations of Jesus' glory.