What are the 7 Signs in the Gospel of John? Meaning and List
Introduction
Unlike the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), the Gospel of John takes a more selective and symbolic approach to Jesus' miracles. John uses the term "signs" (sēmeia in Greek) to emphasize that these miraculous acts point beyond themselves. As John explains in 20:30–31, "Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples... but these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God."
These seven signs are theological milestones. They do not merely reveal power; they reveal identity. They provoke both faith and opposition. They are narrative turning points and theological windows. In this post, we’ll walk through each of these signs and explore what they meant then—and what they still mean now.
The 7 Signs in the Gospel of John
1. Water Turned to Wine (John 2:1–11)
At a wedding in Cana, Jesus turns water into wine. This first sign reveals Jesus' power over creation and introduces the theme of abundance and new covenant. It also sets the tone for John's Gospel: Jesus doesn't just meet needs; he exceeds them.
2. Healing the Official’s Son (John 4:46–54)
A royal official begs Jesus to heal his dying son. Jesus does so from a distance, emphasizing faith without visible proof. This sign invites belief that doesn’t rely on proximity but on trust in Jesus’ word.
3. Healing at the Pool of Bethesda (John 5:1–15)
Jesus heals a man who had been ill for 38 years. The act takes place on the Sabbath, sparking controversy. This sign showcases Jesus’ authority not only over illness but over religious interpretation and tradition.
4. Feeding the 5,000 (John 6:1–14)
With five barley loaves and two fish, Jesus feeds a massive crowd. This sign recalls God's provision of manna in the wilderness and prepares readers for Jesus' declaration, "I am the bread of life."
5. Walking on Water (John 6:16–21)
After feeding the crowd, Jesus walks across the stormy Sea of Galilee to his disciples. The sign displays his authority over nature and echoes divine self-identification: "It is I; do not be afraid."
6. Healing the Man Born Blind (John 9:1–41)
Jesus restores the sight of a man blind from birth. More than a physical healing, this sign sparks a theological debate about sin, suffering, and spiritual blindness. It culminates in the man proclaiming faith in Jesus.
7. Raising Lazarus from the Dead (John 11:1–44)
Perhaps the most dramatic sign, Jesus calls Lazarus out of the tomb after four days. This miracle prefigures Jesus' own resurrection and declares him as "the resurrection and the life."
Bonus Signs (Post-Resurrection)
While John focuses on seven primary signs, a few additional miracles appear after the resurrection:
Great Catch of Fish (John 21:1–14)
Peace to Disciples in Locked Room (John 20:19–23)
Breathing the Spirit (John 20:22)
These reinforce the themes of provision, peace, and spiritual commissioning.
Why Are They Called Signs?
John doesn’t use the Greek word for miracle (dunamis) but instead sēmeia — signs that point to something greater. The point isn’t the event but what it reveals: Jesus' identity as the Messiah and Son of God. These signs are intentional and instructional, showing Jesus as Creator, Healer, Provider, and Lord of life.
Theological Meaning of the Signs
Each sign builds a portrait of Jesus:
Creator (Water to wine)
Healer at a distance (Official's son)
Sabbath Lord (Pool healing)
Bread of life (Feeding)
Master over nature (Walking on water)
Light of the world (Blind man healed)
Resurrection and life (Lazarus)
Together, they unfold a Christology that is both high and intimate.
Meaning for Today
The signs in John are not relics of the past. They still call readers to belief. In a world craving meaning, healing, and hope, these miracles remind us of who Jesus is. They are invitations to trust, to worship, and to follow.
FAQs
How many miracles are in the Gospel of John? There are seven major signs in the pre-resurrection narrative, with several post-resurrection miracles included later.
Why are they called signs instead of miracles? Because they are meant to point to Jesus' identity, not just impress with power.
What is the first sign in John? Turning water into wine at Cana (John 2).
What is the most important sign? Raising Lazarus is often seen as climactic, foreshadowing Jesus’ own resurrection.
