What is the context?
After Thomas’s encounter with the risen Jesus, John turns directly to the purpose of the written account. Jesus did more signs than this book records. John has chosen what to include for a reason.
The purpose is belief that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and life in His name. Christ identifies Him as the promised Messiah. The signs are not collected simply to impress readers; they direct attention to who Jesus is and the life found in Him.
These verses help explain the whole Gospel. Its encounters, teachings and signs are testimony meant to lead the reader to Jesus. The reader who has not seen Him personally is still being invited to believe.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Christians commonly understand these verses as John’s stated purpose: the testimony points to Jesus as Messiah and Son of God, and to life through believing in Him. Calvin on verse 31 explains that the signs support faith and direct people toward Christ’s word. The USCCB’s note on verses 30–31 also identifies these verses as an explanation of the Gospel’s purpose. Differences over other doctrines should not obscure that straightforward point.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
God’s purpose includes bringing people who were not present into the life revealed through His Son. 1 John 1:1–4 follows the same movement: what the witnesses saw and heard is proclaimed so others may share fellowship with the Father and His Son. Written testimony carries the news beyond the first generation of witnesses.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.