JOHN 21:24–25
THIS IS THE DISCIPLE WHO TESTIFIES: THE GOSPEL’S FINAL WITNESS
Text – John 21:24–25
24 It is this disciple who testifies to these things and has written them, and we know that his testimony is true.
25 There are also many other things that Jesus did, but if these were to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would contain the books that would be written.
Historical and Jewish Context
In the ancient Jewish and Greco-Roman world, reliable testimony was essential for establishing truth. The Gospel concludes by affirming eyewitness authority, a key concern in early Christian preaching. The phrase “we know that his testimony is true” reflects the communal validation of the Johannine community, showing that the Gospel was received, preserved, and affirmed by the Church. The hyperbolic language of verse 25 follows Jewish literary style, expressing abundance and awe rather than literal measurement.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This concluding testimony underscores the apostolic foundation of Christian faith. Catholic theology affirms that Sacred Scripture is rooted in the lived witness of those who encountered Christ. The beloved disciple represents both a historical eyewitness and a model disciple whose faith rests on intimacy with Jesus. The acknowledgment that not everything was written highlights that divine revelation exceeds written words and is transmitted through Sacred Tradition as well as Scripture. Christ’s mystery is inexhaustible, inviting continual contemplation.
Parallels in Scripture
Deuteronomy 19:15 – Truth established by witness.
Luke 1:1–4 – Orderly account based on eyewitness testimony.
John 19:35 – Eyewitness testimony at the Cross.
Acts 1:8 – Witnesses to the ends of the earth.
1 John 1:1–3 – What we have seen and heard we proclaim.
Key Terms
Testifies – Faithful eyewitness proclamation.
True – Trustworthy and authoritative witness.
Written – Scripture as testimony.
Many other things – Inexhaustible mystery of Christ.
Whole world – Universal scope of Jesus’ work.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage concludes the Easter proclamation of John’s Gospel. The Church reflects on the trustworthiness of apostolic witness and the ongoing mission to proclaim Christ to the world.
Conclusion
John 21:24–25 closes the Gospel with humility and wonder. What has been written is sufficient for faith, yet Christ’s life and work surpass all words. The Gospel invites every generation to trust the apostolic witness and to continue encountering the living Lord.
Reflection
Do I trust the testimony handed down by the Church?
How does my life bear witness to what I have received?
Am I open to the mystery of Christ that goes beyond words?
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, eternal Word made flesh, I thank You for the faithful witnesses who have handed on the Gospel. Deepen my faith in their testimony and help me to live as a witness to Your truth and love in the world. Amen.