The Johannine Notion of Belief

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While the word “believe” may seem like a particularly broad and specific term, the context of John’s Gospel shows that it truly has various meanings. Granted, the word “believes” still holds the common definition of “accepting as true; to suppose; to have faith”, but in the Gospel of John, it takes on a much deeper meaning due to its context. In all uses of the word “believing”, the stories use a close relation with human senses (Just). Despite the countless goal of reaching complete blind-faith, the people Jesus addresses all need something tangible, and understandable in order to put God into perspective. Whether that perspective connects their understanding with past religious encounters, miraculous acts, or a loving comparison, the disciples have a terribly difficult time believing solely off of words.

“Believe” has been used in the same way as “accepted” (John 12:38). To accept Jesus’ message as valid, a person would be acknowledging its legitimacy and listening to it as a reliable source. By Jesus presenting his message in this way, it helps the people to relate their beli...

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