In my attempt to help you comprehend the treasures hidden in the Gospels, I would like to share with you some more facts. For those who would like to know more about the differences in content between the Gospel according John and the other three Gospels (Synoptic), let me share this:

John portrays Jesus Christ as “The Eternal Word” who remains ever-present with us.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God… And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father” (John 1:1 & 14).

While the Synoptic Gospels are focusing on the life of Jesus, John’s focus is on the mystical relationship between Jesus and His Father in heaven and the Holy Spirit as the comforter.

From a cursory reading of John’s Gospel, one can easily notice that there are no parables, which are prevalently seen in the Synoptic Gospels. Yet, there are metaphoric stories such as The Shepherd (John ch.10) and The Vine (John ch.15).

The Synoptic Gospels contain just the stories about the miracles and healings that Jesus performed. Whereas John sees them as signs of Jesus’ divinity rather than seeing them as mere acts of compassion. Hence, he elaborates the miracle and healing stories to bring out the significant truth hidden in them.

Since the intention of John is to present Jesus as the Son of God and to invite the people to believe in him (Cf. John 20:30-31), he omits about 90 percent of the material contained in the Synoptic Gospels, which describe more of Jesus’ life, miracles, parables and exorcisms.

May The Word of God strengthen our faith

Fr. Arul Joseph V.


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