Thoughts on the Gospel of John (221) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

Then this saying went out among the brethren that this disciple would not die. Yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but, If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? This is the disciple who testifies of these things, and wrote these things; and we know that his testimony is true. And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen.
John 21:23–25

Thoughts on the Gospel of John (221)
Peter has learned that he would have to suffer the death of the cross in his old age. Thereupon he would like to know what John has to expect. But the Lord does not tell him. He only says: “If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you?” Thereupon some have spread a rumour. Let us be warned against drawing false conclusions from the Word of God or giving too much importance to our conclusions. They must not be put on the same level as the Word of God and made into dogma.

“Till I come” – obviously the Lord is alluding to the revelation He gave to His servant John at the end of his life: He saw visions of the Lord’s return as judge of the whole earth, so that the long-announced millennial kingdom could be set up.

This brings us to the end of this great Gospel. John has faithfully fulfilled his task. There is no doubt that his words are true – they are inspired by God.

Much more important than the writer is the subject of this Gospel: the incarnate Son of God. It would be simply impossible to describe all the works He did. Our hearts are too small to fully comprehend Him. We are left to admire Him in what is reported of Him.

(concluded)

Today’s reading: Exodus 3:7-22 · Luke 1:39-56