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Every man may be compared to a book, and every day adds a fresh page to it. Notice —

I. THE RECORD. "These are written."

1. The subjects of the publication are the wonderful works and sayings of our Lord. His deeds were such as no human power could accomplish. The miracles were performed —

(1)  As proofs of His Divinity.

(2)  As acts of humanity.

(3)  As illustrations of the works of salvation.Their publicity is particularly mentioned in the text. They were done in the presence of the disciples. Imposture seeks concealment. The miracles said to every doubter, "Come and see." Their number is also noted. "Many other signs." And not only are the miracles recorded, but the savings. With what dignity, authority, power, does He speak!

2. The way by which the Divine will has been revealed has been by inspiring certain men to record it in writing. Many advantages are derived from this method — the advantages of —

(1)  Universality. A man's writings reach further than his voice.

(2)  Appeal. "To the law and the testimony" we appeal. This is the judge that ends strife.

(3)  Security and permanence.The uttered word perishes; the letter written remains. What do we know of ancient history but through books? Let us be thankful, then, for two great blessings — the Book written in our own tongue, and for ability to read it.

II. THE REASON. "These things are written that ye might believe" —

1. In the real existence of Jesus. Some have been so sceptical as to doubt whether such a person ever lived. They never doubt the existence of Caesar or Mahommed. But have we not much stronger proof of the existence of Christ?

2. In the true character of Jesus.

(1)  As the Christ.

(2)  As the Son of God.

III. THE RESULT. Some write books for pecuniary ends. John wrote that we might have life — not animal or intellectual, but spiritual and eternal. There are five signs of life — sensibility, activity, appetency, appropriateness, superiority to gravitation. Have we these signs spiritually?

(D. Thomas, D. D.)

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KJV: And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book:

WEB: Therefore Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book;